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THE CHILD'S 

HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



DESIGNED AS A 



FIRST BOOK OF HISTORY 



FOR S C II () O L S . 



LLITSTRATED BY NUMEROUS ANECDOTES. 



BY CHARLES A. G O O I) R I C li . 



IMrROVED FROM THE THIRTY-FIRST FDTTION^. 

PHILADELPHIA : 

THOMAS, COWPERTHWAIT, & CO. 

1845. 







Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1845, by 

THOMAS, COWPERTHWAIT & Co., 

in the Clerk's OfBcc of the District Court for the Eastern District of 
Pennsylvania. 



i /x; X. 



PREFACE TO THE THIRTY-FIRST EDITION. 



Since the first edition of this little work, in 
1831, not less than thirty editions have been 
published. Public favour continuing to be shov^n 
it, the author, besides improving it in other re- 
spects, has now added the administrations of 
Presidents Jackson, Van Buren, Harrison and 
Tyler, thus bringing the work down, as nearly 
as possible, to the present time. Should it help, 
in any degree, to inspire the youthful mind with 
that pure and exalted patriotism, which so emi- 
nently adorned the lives of the fathers, who now 
sleep in a land whose independence they achiev- 
ed, the author will feel abundantly rewarded. 

The simplicity of the plan renders unnecessary 
any directions, as to the manner, in which the 
book is to be taught, or studied. 

Berlin, Conn., 1845. 

(S) 



I 



CONTENTS. 



LfcPson Page 

I. Discovery of America by Columbus 1 

Story — Voyage of Columbus 'J 

II. Settlement of Jamestown by the English 1" 

Story — Captain John Smith 15 

III. Indians 18 

Story Captain John Smith and Pocaliontas 21 

IV. Settlement of Plymouth 24 

Story — Ji)hn Goodman and Peter Brown 27 

V. Other settlements 30 

Story — Jolm Holmes 31 

VI. Early Indian Wurs—Pequot War— Philip's War 37 

Story — Canonchet and Philip 42 

VII. King V/iUiam's War 45 

Story—Mrn. Dnslan 47 

VIII. Queen Anne's War 50 

Story Mr. Williams 51 

IX. French and Indian War 53 

Story — Capture of Quebec 57 

X. War of the Revolution— Stamp Act 60 

Story — Proceedings in Boston 63 

XI. W^ar of the Revolution — Destruction of Tea 65 

' Story Proceedings in relation to the Tea 67 

XII. War of the Revolution — Battle of Lexington 69 

Story Mr. Wheeler's Yankee Wisdom 73 

XIII. War of the Revolution— Bunker Hill — Washington — Inde- 
pendence '^5 

Story Proceedings about Independence 78 

(V) 



VI CONTENTS. 

Lesson Page 
XIV. War of the Revolution — Retreat of Washington — Battle of 

Trenton — Brandywine — Germantown 80 

Story — Lydia Darrah 83 

XV. War of the Revolution — Battle of Saratoga — Monmouth — 

Burning of Fairfield 87 

Story — Putnam — Washington 89 

XVI. W^ar of the Revolution — Battle of Camden — French fleet 

— Arnold's conspiracy 93 

Story — Arnold, Andre, and Champe 95 

XVII. War of the Revolution — Yorktown — New London — Peace 101 
Story — Farewell of Washington to his army 103 

XVIII. Federal Constitution — Washington, President 105 

Story— The Irishman's Visit to Washington 107 

XIX. John Adams, President 110 

Story — President Adams's Courage and Humanity 112 

XX. Thomas Jefferson, President 116 

Story — Lieut. Decatur — Death of Jefferson and Adams . . 121 

XXI. James Madison, President — War with England 126 

Story — The English Midshipman 132 

XXII. James Monroe, President 136 

Story— Battle of Trenton 139 

XXIII. John Quincy Adams, President 143 

Story — The cheated Indian 149 

XXIV. Andrew Jackson, President 151 

Story — His early history — Battle of New Orleans 155 

XXV. Martin Van Buren, President 161 

Story — Inauguration of a President 164 

XXVI. William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, Presidents 169 

Story — Battle of Tippecanoe 172 



THE UNITED STATES 

FOR CHILDREN. 




Columbus listening to the cry of " Land ' ' 

LESSON I. 

AMERICA DISCOVERED BY COLUI\IBUS. 

1. America was discovered by Christopher 
Columbus, in the year 1492. Columbus was 
born in Italy. He first went to sea when he 
was fourteen years of age. He was about fifty- 
i^even when he discovered America, 



8 

2. He sailed from a place in Spain, called 
Palos. Palos lies exactly east from Jamestown, 
in Virginia. Columbus came to America with 
three vessels. They were small vessels. But 
one of them had a complete deck. They were 
called the Santa Maria, the Finta, and the JYi- 
na. The Santa Maria was the largest, and the 
one in which Columbus himaelf sailed. 

3. The ocean which Columbus crossed was 
the Atlantic. This is three thousand miles wide. 
No one had crossed this ocean before. Colum- 
bus was two months in performing the voyage. 

4. The land, which he first discovered, was 
an island. He found it inhabited by Indians. 
The Indians called it Gu-a-na-ha-na. Colum- 
bus gave it the name of San Salvador, It is one 
of the large cluster of Islands called Bahamas. 
In the maps of the present day it is called Cat 
Island, 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 9 

5. After this discovery, Columbus made seve- 
ral other voyages. In 1498, he discovered the 
continent itself. Columbus died in 1506, when 
he was about seventy years old. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When was America discovered ? By whom ? When was Colum- 
bus born ? At what age did lie first go to sea ? How old vvas he when 
he fiisl discovered America ? 

2. What country did he sail from ? From what place ? Which wav 
does Palos lie from Jamestown '* How many vessels had Columbus'? 
Were they large, or small, vessels .' What were their names ? In which 
did Columbus sail ? 

3. V/hal ocea.n did Columbus cross ? How wide is this ocean ? Hac' 
any one crossed it before ? How long did it take to perform the \ oyage ? 

4. "\Viiat was the land which Columbus first saw ? Who inhabited it ? 
What dill the iiutians call the island 1 What name is given to it in the 
maps of the present day ? 

5. Did Columbus make other voyages ? When did he discover the con- 
tinent itself ? In what year did he die ? How old was he ? 



STORY. 

1. Now that you know the first lesson, I will tell you a 
story. You have learned how Columbus discovered Amer- 
ica. Before this time the people in other countries knew 
not that there was any such land as America. 

2. How, then, should Columhus know that there was 
any such land ; he did not know. But he thought ihero 
must be, to balance the land in the Eastern continent ; and 



10 child's history 

he told his opinion to some of the learned men in Europe 
but they paid little attention to him, 

3. At length, he visited Spain, the king and queen of 
which country treated him more kindly ; and they agreed 
to fit out three vessels, in vi^hich Columbus should sail on 
his voyage of discovery. 

4. This was a bold plan. No vessel had as yet crossed 
the wide Atlantic ; but Columbus was brave, and his men 
were brave also. 

5. For sixty days they sailed directly west; but they 
could not discover any land. And now the sailors became 
alarmed. They trembled to think of the distance they had 
sailed ; and were fearful they might never return. The 
heart of Columbus alone remained firm ; and he resolved 
to push forward, in spite of the fears and murmurs of his 
crew. This he plainly informed them. 

6. One evening, shortly after, indications of land appear- 
ed. Columbus ordered a double watch set. But no one 
could sleep. Columbus himself walked the deck. He felt 
anxious Presently, he heard a shout from on board the 
Pinta. What could it mean ? A still louder shout he 
soon heard. The cry was " Land ! land ! " 

7. The heart of Columbus beat with joy, and the sailors 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 11 

wept for joy. When the morning came, the land was in 
full view before them. Columbus assembled his men 
around him, and with them returned thanks to God ; after 
which they sung a hymn of praise. 

8. Columbus soon landed on the island. The inhabi- 
tants he found were Indians ; they had never seen a white 
man before. They were surprised to see Columbus and 
his men, but they were astonished at the sight of his ves 
sels, and at the fire and thunder of the cannon. 

9. When Columbus had sufficiently examined the 
country, he set sail to return. But a storm came on, and 
the waves of the ocean rose like mountains. The masts 
trembled ; the sails were torn ; and all was given up for 
lost. 

10. The little vessels, however, struggled through the 
waves. They mounted aloft, where they stood, for a mo- 
ment — then they plunged — but again they rose. At length 
the temptest ceased God had preserved them. And now 
they went on their way ; and after sailing for many days 
.and weeks they arrived safely in Spain, and there told of 
the neio world which they had discovered. 



12 



CHILD S HISTORY 




Capt. Smith on an Island, p. 16. 

LESSON II. 



JAMESTOWN SETTLED 

1. America being now 
soon spread far and wide, 
out, and many daring men 
ther discoveries. Among 
this object in view, was a 
A-me7'-i-cus Ves-pu-cius. 
much ; but he told so fine 



BY THE ENGLISH. 

discovered, the news 

Vessels were fitted 

set forth to make fur- 

those who sailed with 

man by the name of 

He did not discover 

a story, that America 



OF THE UNITED STATES. IS' 

was called after him. It should have been called 
after Columbus. 

2. Another adventurer was John Cabot, He 
sailed from England. He discovered North Ame- 
rica, in which we live. This was in 1497. 

3. Many years after this, a number of people 
from England came over to settle in America. 
They consisted of one hundred and five persons. 
They were four months on the water, and their 
voyage v/as very unpleasant. 

4. On reaching America, they entered Chesa- 
peake Bay, and saihng up James River about 
thirty-two miles, they found a beautiful spot on 
its banks, where they concluded to settle. The 
village which they built, they called Jamesionm. 

5. The country was then all a wilderness. 
There were no houses, nor roads, nor bridges, 
as at the present day; and the only houses 
\\hich the English had to live in, for a long time, 
were built of k)gs 

f 



14 

6 For a time, they had plenty of provisions, 
which they had brought with them. But when, 
at length, these were gone, they suffered much, 
and were often near starving. They then were 
obliged to hve on fish, acorns, roots, and a Uttle 
corn, which the Indians gave them. 

7. Their sufferings were often severe. Some- 
times they were in want. Sometimes many 
were sick, and not a few died. And then, again, 
the Indians threatened to kill them. But, after 
a time, other vessels arrived from England, bring- 
ing more people, and' a fresh supply of provisions. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. After whom was America called ? After whom should it have been 
called ? 

2. Who discovered North America ? When did Cabot discover it ? 

3. What people first settled in America ? How many came over ? How 
long was their voyage ? Was the vo^'age pleasant ? 

4. What bay did they enter ? What river did they enter ? How far 
did they sail up that river ? Where did they settle ? What did they call 
the place ? 

5. What was the appearance of the country ? What kind of houses did 
they live in ? 

6. On what, at first, did they live ? When their provisions were gone 
what did they do ? 

7 Did they suffer much ? From what did they suffer ? How worethev 
relieved ? 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 15 

STORY. 

1. Now, I will tell you another story. You have learned 
kow, many years after America was discovered, some people 
from England came over to settle in the country. Among 
those who arrived in the first vessel, was Capf. John Smith ; 
and it is about his adventures I am going to tell you. 

2. Captain Smith was born in England. When quite 
young, he lost his father ; and having no one to take care 
of him but his mother, he became wild and disobedient. 

3. After a time, he was placed with a merchant, by 
whom he was treated kindly. But his conduct was highly 
improper ; and, at length, he run away. 

4. He had but little money with him. But he resolved 
to travel towards France. He had heard of Paris, a beauti- 
ful city of France, and he wished to see it. 

5. At length, he reached that city, and admired it much. 
The houses, which he saw, were very high and beautiful ; 
but he was better pleased with the shows which he saw, 
and of which the French people are quite fond. In one 
place he saw some wild animals, lions, tigers, elephants 
and monkeys. In another place, he saw a man dancing 
on a rope ; and, not far distant, people riding very swiftly 
in a place called a cireus. One man was standing upright 



16 child's history 

on a horse, under fall gallop ; and another, with one foot on 
one horse, and the other foot on another horse. 

6. When Smith had seen enough of France, he went to 
Holland, where the Dutch live. Here, he became a sol- 
dier ; but, not liking this kind of life, one dark night, he 
deserted. It was well that he escaped. Had he been 
taken, he would have been shot ; and here, then, we should 
have ended our story. 

7. After this he made a voyage to Italy. On board the 
vessel in which he sailed there were several passengers, be- 
sides himself One day, young Smith treated some of these 
passengers quite rudely ; upon which they threw him over- 
board into the sea. He sunk deep ; but being an excellent 
swimmer, he was soon on the top of the waves, and at 
length reached an island. From this he was taken by some 
people belonging to another vessel, and carried to Italy. 

8. When he had seen Italy, he went into Austria, where 
he again enlisted as a soldier, and went forth to fight the 
Turks. One day, a Turkish horseman sent a challenge to 
him to come and fight. Smith and the Turk fought on 
horseback, with a kind of sword called a sabre. Smith 
killed the Turk; and, after him, two others. 

9. After this, in a battle, he was taken prisoner and 
sold as a slave. He was sent many hundred miles, far to 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 17 

the east, where he was loaded with chains, and now became 
very miserable. No wonder he was miserable. Persons 
wlio conduct themselves so improperly as he did, must 
expect to suffer. God approves not of widked conduct; 
nor will he bless those who are guilty of it. 

10. After some time, Captain Smith made his escape 
and returned to England. He had seen much, and sufferea 
much. But his misfortunes had done him good ; and from 
this time he proved a useful man. 

11. Soon after his return to England, he was invited to 
accompany the first settlers to America. This invitation 
he gladly accepted, and on reaching America he assisted 
in building Jamestown, and did much to forward the inter- 
ests of the new colony. 

12. I have something further to relate about Captain 
Smith. This I shall do in my next story. But, before 
reading that story, be careful to learn the next lesson. 
Wiien /was a boy, it used to be told me, " work first — 
then play." In like manner I would say to all my little 
pupils, "learn the lesson first — then read the story." 



18 



child's history. 




aiiontas saving the life of Capl. Smith, p. 23. 



LESSON III. 
INDIANS. 

1. Soon after the English had come to Ame- 
rica, they found that the whole land was filled 
wath Indians. Their number was about one 
hundred and fifty thousand, m the limits of the 
thirteen original states. 

2. How long the Indians had been in America 
is not known. It is supposed they came from 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 19 

Asia, across Bhering's Strait. This strait sepa- 
rates America from Asia. 

3. The Indians were quite tall, and straight,' 
their colom* was red, or brown. They had long, 
black, and coarse hair. They were very brave, 
but cruel and revengeful. 

4. Their huts they called week-warns. They 
lived on the flesh of wild animals, and fish 
Sometimes, they had corn, beans, peas, and po- 
tatoes. The English never saw Indian corn, be- 
fore they came to America. It is called Indian 
corn because it was found among the Indians. 
Thei7^ name for it was maize, 

5. The Indians in America were divided into 
tribes. Each tribe had a king, or chief, whom 
they called their sachem. Between these tribes, 
there were often bloody wars. Indians delight 
m war. The weapons which they used were 
clubs, bows and arrows, and tomahawks. 

6 The tomahawk was made of stone. With 



20 child's history 

this weapon they used to cut off the top part of 
the heads of those whom they took prisoners. 
This was called scalping. Before going to war, 
they always sounded the war-hoop. This was a 
yell, sounding like " JVo-ach, TVo-ach, ha hack 
Wo-achr On concluding a peace, each smoked 
the same pipe. This pipe was called a Calumet. 
It was made of red stone. Its stem was more 
than a yard long. It was ornamented with por- 
cupine's quills, beads, ribbons, and horse-hair 
dyed red. The Indians worshipped a Good 
Spirit, and an Evil Spirit. But of the true God 
they knew nothing ; nor had they ever heard of 
the Bible, or of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of men, 

QUESTIONS. 

1. Who inhabited America before the English came over ? What was 
tlie number of Indians in the bounds of the orlg-inal thirteen States 1 

2. How long had they lived in America ? From what country did they 
come 1 Across what strait ? What does this strait separate ? 

3. What was he appearance of the Indians ? What was their colour ? 
What kind of hair had they 1 Were they brave 1 Were the}^ kind and 
forgiving ? 

4. What were their huts called ? On what did they live ? On what 
else ? Was Indian corn known to the English, before they came to 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 21 

4. What were their huts calJed ? On what did they live ? On what 
else ? Was Indian corn known to the English, before they came to Ame- 
rica ? Why was it called Indian corn ? What did the Indians call it ? 

5. How were the Indians divided ? What was their chi<?f called ? 
What is said of wars between them 1 In what do Indians delight '\ What 
are their weapons of war l 

6. Of what was the tomahawk made ? What was its use ? What is 
scalping ? What did the Indians do before going to war 1 What did the 
war-hoop sound like ? When peace was made, wluit did the}' do? What 
was this pipe called ? 

7. What did the Indians worship ? What did thoy know of the true 
God ? AYhat of the Bible, and Jesus Christ ? 



STORY. 

1. 1 \\'\\\ now finish my story about Captain Siisith. 

2. Tlie Indians, at first, seemed well pleased to see Cap- 
lain Smith, and the other English people. For a time, 
they treated them kindly, and gave them corn. 

3. But their kindness did not last long. They began to 
think the English wished to get away their lands. And, at 
length, they did not come to Jamestown often ; nor would 
they give nor sell the new settlers any more corn. - 

4. The English were now in serious want ; and fears 
were felt that the colony must starve. But Captain Smith 
being a brave man, went boldly among the Indians, and 
compelled them to let him have a supply of corn. 



22 child's history 

5. This, however, made the Indians the more unfriendly 
to him, and from this time they watched an opportunity to 
seize him. An opportunity was soon presented. He had 
gone into the wilderness, some distance from Jamestown, 
when some Indians came upon him ; and though he brave- 
ly defended himself, for a time, they at length seized him. 

0. The Indians were much pleased that they had him 
in their power. They shouted over him, and around him ; 
and, at length, bound him to a tree, thinking to kill him 
with their arrows. 

7. Some, however, advised to take him to Po-ha tan 
He was their sachem, and a mighty v/arrior. This was 
agreed upon, and they led Captain Smith to Pohatan. 

8. When Pohatan saw him, he seemed well pleased 
He had, he thought, an enemy in his pov/er. Indians 
delight in torture and blood. Pohatan and his warriors 
doomed Captain Smith to death. 

9. Prep?crations were accordingly made. A stone was 
brought, and laid on the ground. The Indians gathered 
round. They looked fierce, and were impatient for his 
death. Captain Smith's head was laid on the stone, and a 
club was handed to Pohatan. 

10. Pohatan came forward, and stood over the place 
where Captain Smith lay. Near by stood two little girls. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 23 

They were the daughters of Poliatan. The name of the 
one I do not know — the name of the other was Poc-a-han- 
tas. 

11. These little girls saw Captain Smith — they saw 
their father — they saw the clul). The strong arm of the 
chief was raising it. lie looked full of wrath, and death 
was coming in the blow. 

12. But the blow cnnie not — and death came not. Both 
were coming — but little Pocahantas, at that instant, sprang 
f(,<r\vard, and folded the head of Captain Smith in her arms. 
She could not see him die. lie was a brave man, and siie 
wished her father not to kill a brave man. 

13. Poliatan paused. He looked round, amazed. The 
fierce and savage loolvs of the Indians were gone. They 
loved Pocahantas, and ^heivas a lovely girl. Poliatan him- 
self was much affected. He raised his daughter. JN'o doubt 
lie loved her better than ever. For her sake he spared 
('aptaiii Smith, and sent him back to Jamestown, in salety. 

14. This was noble. Pocahantas had been brought up 
among savages: but she had kind feelings, and, in lliis 
instance, set a worthy example. 



24 



child's history 




Goodman and Brown discovering Plymouth at sunrise, p. 29. 

LESSON IV. 

PLYMOUTH SETTLED. 

1. Seven years after the English had set- 
tled at Jamestown, some Dutch people came 
over from Holland, and began to settle JYew 
York, They built a fort at Albaiiij, and form- 
ed a settlement where the city of JYew York 
now stands. The year the Dutch came over 
was 1614. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 25 

2. In 1620, another vessel arrived from Eng- 
land, bringing people, who began to settle Mas- 
sachiisetts. On board this vessel, there w^ere an 
hundred and one persons. The name of the 
vessel in which they came was the Speedioell. 

3. These persons were a religious set of 
people. They were called Puritans ; and this 
name was given them because they wished to 
worship God in a purer manner than other peo- 
ple did in England. But this they were not 
allowed to do in that country, m peace, and so 
ihey concluded to come to America. 

4. Their voyage lasted four months, and 
was very distressing. They setded a place, 
which they called Plymouth, This lies thirty- 
six miles south-east from Boston. They land- 
ed on the twenty- second of December. They 
landed on a rock, which since that time has 
been called "Forefathers' Rockr The first 



26 

person, who jumped out of the boat, on to the 
rock, was a girl, by the name of Mary Chilton. 

5. When they landed, the ground was cover- 
ed with a deep snow ; and they suffered much, 
before they could finish a sufficient number of 
log houses. They suffered, also, from hunger ; 
but the Indians round Plymouth proved quite 
friendly, and gave them corn. But, before spring, 
more than half of the people sickened and died. 

6. Not long after this, several other vessels 
arrived with new colonists, who settled Boston, 
Salem, and other places. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. Wlio settled New York ? How long- was tlie arrival of the DuUli, 
after the English began to settle Jamestown ? Where did the Dutch 
build a fort ? Where did the Dutch form a settlement ? What year 
was this ? 

2. When was Massachusetts first settled ? B3' whom ? How many first 
came over 1 What was the name of the vessel, in which they fame over ? 

3. What sort of people were they ? What were they called ? Why 
were the called thus ? Were they allowed to do this in peace ? 

4. How long was their voyage ? Was it pleasant 1 Wiiere did they 
settle? How far is this from Boston ? ^Vhich wa}' ? When did they 
land ? On what did they land ? What is this rock ailed ? Who first 
jumped from the boat ? 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 27 

5. What was the ground covered with, at this time ? Did the people 
sufier ni'ith ? For what did the sutfer ? Who gave them coru ? lluw 
many ,iitd before spring ? 

6 What other places were settled soon after this ? 



STORY. 

1. You now know something of the arrival of the people 
at Plymouth, in America, and of their landing on " Fore- 
fathers' Rock." 

2. It was winter, when they arrived, as I told you ; but 
they contrived to build nineteen huts, one for each family. 
But all the time they were at work, the cold wind blew, 
and it rained, and snowed. Many of the men took cold, 
fell sick, and died. 

3. The people, however, prayed much, and still trusted 
in God. They had come to America to serve Him ; and 
they believed, that He would not forsake them. And Ho 
did not forsake them. They suffered much from sickness, 
and from want, and many died. But spring, at length, 
came ; and those who survived, enjoyed better health, and 
were able to work. 

4. One day, in the month of January, John Goodman 
and Peter Brown went into the woods to get some thatch, or 
wild grass, with which to cover their huts. They had no 
shingles and no straw, but used wild grass. 



28 child's history 

5. When they had procured sufficient, they set out to 
return ; but they had lost their way, and before they were 
aware, night came on. The sky was cloudy, and it began 
to snow. In these distressing circumstances what should 
they do 1 They had no great coats, and their clothes were 
thin. 

6. They could not reach home that night. Fortunately, 
they found a rock, under which they took shelter, and on 
some leaves they laid down, and with other leaves they 
covered themselves. 

7. But now another trouble came. John Goodman 
said he was sure that he heard a lio?i near them. ^ Peter 
Brown listened, and thought he heard one too. They were 
much alarmed, and lay as still as possible. 

8. I suppose my pupils know, that tliey did jwt hear a 
lion. Lions were never found in North-America. Some 
very good people used to say that there certainly ivas a lion 
once seen at Cape Ann, near Boston ; but wiser people 
know that there never were any seen there. Lions are 
found in Africa; but not in America, unless they are 
brought here for a show, 

9. Now I will tell you what Peter Brown and John 
Goodman did hear. What they heard was nothing but 



OF THE UJ^riTED STATES. 29 

the roaring of the wind : but they thought it was the roar- 
ing of a lion ; and they were so sure of it, that they both 
rose and began climbing a tree : but they were soon glad 
to come down, the wind was so strong and cold. 

10. On reaching the ground, they were obliged to walk 
round and round the tree to keep themselves from freezing, 
and they continued thus to walk, all night. It was well 
that they were kept awake by the fear of a lion. Had they 
gone to sleep under the rock, they would have frozen to 
death. 

11. No lion came near them, for no lion was there. 
The morning, at length, dawned, much to their joy. 
They now hastened from the spot; and after some time 
came to a hill, from the top of which they could see Ply- 
mouth harbour. It was a great distance ; and they were 
obliged to walk with great speed, and sometimes even to 
run, to reach home that night. At nine in the evenmg, 
they entered the village. 

12. The people were rejoiced to see them. They had 
been abroad all that day in search of them ; but not find- 
ing them, it was the general opinion that they had been 
killed by the Indians. I dare say that John Goodman 
and Peter Brown took good care no* to get lost again. 



30 



CHILD'S HISTORY 




John Holmes passing the Dutch fort. p. 35. 

LESSON. V. 

OTHER SETTLEMENTS. 

1. Now you know something ef the manner 
in which Virginia, New York, and Massachu- 
setts, began to be settled. You will wish to 
know, I trust, when, and by whom some other 
of the United States began to be settled. I will 
tell you. 

2. JVew Hampshire was settled next to Mas- 



OF THE UNITED STATES, 31 

sachusetts, by people who came from England. 
They settled at a place called Dover, on the 
river Pis-cat-a-qua. This was in 1623. 

3. JYew-Jerseij was settled next — in 1624. 
It was settled by people from Norway. The 
town first begun was called Bergen^ after a 
city of that name in Norway. It hes on the 
Hudson, three miles from the city of New- 
York. 

4. Next to New -Jersey, Delaware was set- 
tled. This was in 1627. The people who set- 
tled this State came from Sweden and Finland. 
They setded near Wilmington. 

5. The State of Connecticut was settled next 
— in 1633; that is, the first house was, at that 
time, erected. This was a trading house, built 
by one John Holmes, at Windsor, seven or eight 
miles north of Hartford, on Connecticut River. 
In 1635, and the following year, the three 
towns, Hartford, Windsor and Weathersfield, 



32 child's history 

were settled, by people from Massachusetts, 
who travelled on foot through the wilderness. 
They were a fortnight in making the journey. 
The distance is a hundred miles. They hved 
chiefly on the milk of the cows, which they 
drove. 

6. Maryland was setded in 1634, by persons 
who came from England with Lord Baltimore. 

7. Rhode Island was settled in 1636, by Rog- 
er Williams, and some others, from Massachu- 
setts. They settled the town of Providence, 

8. Georgia was setded in 1733, by people 
from England, who accompanied General Ogle- 
thorpe. They settled at Savannah. 

9. The first settlement made in JVorth Caro- 
lina, was in the year 1650, by people from 
Virginia. 

10. South Carolina was setded in 1670, near 
the city of Charleston. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 3B 

11. Pennsylvania was first settled in 1680. 
It was called after William Penn, who was a 
Quaker. He founded the city of Philadelphia. 
This word means the city of love. 

12. Thus I have told you about the settle- 
ment of thirteen states. There are now twenty 
four states ; but only thirteen were settled be- 
fore the war of the revolution, about which I 
shall tell you by and by. 

13. Now, remember the order in which these 
thirteen states were settled. First, Virginia; 
next, New York; then, Massachusetts; New 
Hampshire; New Jersey; Delaware; Connec- 
ticut ; Maryland ; Rhode Island ; North Caro- 
lina ; South Carolina ; Pennsylvania ; and last, 
Georgia. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. What state was settled next to Massachusetts ? By whom ? Whac 
place did they settle ? On what river 1 In what year ? 

2. What state was next settled ? In what year ? By whotn 1 WhaC 

3 



34 child's history 

town did they settle ? How far is this town from N«w York ? On 
what river ? 

3. When was Delaware settled ? By whom ? Near what place did 
they settle ? 

4. When was Connecticut settled ? What house was at this time erect- 
ed ? By whom ? Where ? How far from Hartford ? Which way ? " On 
what river ? When were Hartford, Windsor, and Weathersfield, settled ? 
By whom ? How did they reach these places '? How long did it take 
them ? What is the distance ? On what did they live ? 

6, When was Maryland settled ? By whom ? 

6. When was Georgia settled ? By whom ? Who brought them over t 
Where did they settle ? 

T. When was Rhode Island settled ? By whom ? What town did 
they settle ? 

8. When was North Carolina settled ? By whom ? 

9. When was South Carolina settled ? Near what city ? 

10. When was Pennsylvania settled ? After whom was it called ? 
What was he '! What city did he found ? 

11. How many states have I told you about? How many slates are 
there now in the United States ? How many states were there settled 
before the Revolutionary War? 

12. Now, in what order were these states settled ? 



STORY. 

1. Children of the present ^y know little of the toil 
and trouble it cost our fathers and mothers to settle these 
states. Now, we can look abroad and see large cities, 
handsome villages, fine fields, and rich gardens. We see 
good, smooth roads, strong bridges, and well finished 
houses. 

2. It was not so once. Indeed, it was not. When these 
states began to be settled, th© country was all a wilderness. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 35 

For hundreds of miles it was one unbroken forest. Not a 
city, not a town, was to be seen — not a village — not a 
house, excepting here and there a few Indian wig-wams. 

3. Even the frame of the first house built in Connecti- 
cut, was made at Plymouth, in Massachusetts. It was 
made by John Holmes. When finished, he put it on board 
a small vessel, and set sail for Connecticut river. 

4. Sailing up that river, he at length came where Hart- 
ford now stands. Just in that spot, he was much surprised 
to see a kind of fort, standing near the banks of the river. 
Some Dutch people from New York had built it, for the 
purpose of preventing others from settling near them. 
They had planted a cannon upon the fort, to fire upon any 
one who should attempt to sail higher up the river. 

5. When Holmes came along in his vessel, the Dutch 
came out from the fort, and hailed him. "Stop," said 
they, "and pull down your sails;" and while they said 
this, they loaded their cannon, and brought fire from the 
fort, and told Holmes thafrthey would blow him through, 
if he did not stop. 

6. Holmes saw the Dutch, — saw their cannon, — saw 
them loading it, and heard them call. Little cared he ; he 
was a bold man. A fine wind was blowing, and his little 



36 

vessel went on, like a bird in the air. Besides, he knew 
that the Dutch were no marksmen at all; and he went 
on, leaving them quite vexed, that powder and ball would 
not scare an Englishman. On reaching Windsor, he put 
up his house, and thus led the way for the settlement of 
Connecticut. 



OF THE UNITED STATES 



37 




Canonchet replying to the young English officer, p. 43. 

LESSON VI. 

EARLY INDIAN WARS. — 1. PEQUOT WAR. 

1. I HAVE already told you something about 
the Indians, who were found in the country 
when it was first settled by the Enghsh. In 
this lesson, I shall tell you of the wars, which 
the Enghsh had with these Indians. I 

2. The first Indian war was called the "Pa* 
quot warJ^ This began in 1637. 



38 CHILD'S HISTORY 

3. The Pequots were a powerful tribe. They 
lived in Connecticut. Their chief sachem v/as 
called Sassacus. He was a great warrior. 

4. The Pequots had two forts near New 
Lonflbn and Groton. Soon after the English 
settled Connecticut, the Pequots killed several 
of them, and a war with them became neces- 
sary. 

5. The people of Hartford, Windsor, and 
Weathersfield raised ninety men. Captain Ma- 
son commanded them. They were assisted by 
five hundred Narragansett Indians. These In- 
dians lived in Rhode Island. 

6. With this force, Captain Mason surprised 
the principal fort of the Pequots early one morn- 
ing — burnt the fort and utterly destroyed them. 
This was a sad war ; but it was just on the part 
of the Enghsh, because the Pequots were de- 
termined to destroy them. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 39 

2. PHILIP'S WAR. 

7. The next Indian war began in 1675. This 
was called " Kmg Philip^s TFar,''' because he 
was the chief- mover of it. 

8. Philip was the sachem of the JVam-pa-no- 
ag tribe. He had a fort at Mount Hope, in 
Bristol, Rhode -Island. 

9. The grandfather of Philip was the friend 
of the English. Philip w^as their enemy. He 
was their enemy, because he thought they were 
taking too much land from the Indians ; and 
now he determined, if possible, to destroy them. 

10. To effect this purpose, he visited nearly 
ail the tribes in New -England, and engaged them 
to assist in the war. This was a more extensive 
Vv'ar than the Pequot war, and by far more severe 
and bloody. 

11. Many towns were surprised, and the in- 
habitants cruelly killed. At Brookfield, in Mh 



40 child's history 

sachusetts, the inhabitants fled to a house, which 
the Indians assaulted, and around which they 
continued for two days. At length, finding they 
could not take it, they loaded a cart with flax 
and tow, and setting it on fire, pushed it against 
the house. But a heavy shower of rain provi- 
dentially came and put out the fire. 

12. At another time, the English troops fol- 
lowed the Narragansett Indians, who had taken 
part with Philip, into a deep swamp, in which 
they had a fort, and a village of weekwams. In 
the fort and village were supposed to be nearly 
four thousand Indians. The English attacked 
the fort, and a dreadful battle followed ; but the 
English were victorious. They burnt the fort 
and the weekwams, and almost all the Indians 
were killed or burnt. 

13. The war ended in 1676, by the death of 
Philip. He was discovered, at this time, in a 



1 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 41 

swamp, with his great captain, Anawon, and a 
few followers. Captain Church being informed 
of the place of his concealment, marched to the 
swamp, and ordered his soldiers to surround it. 

14. "Now," said he, "it is impossible for Phil- 
ip to escape." At this moment, Philip started 
to flee. An English soldier levelled his gun at 
him, but it missed fire. An Indian fired, and 
the ball passed through his heart. 

15. Captain Church ordered him to be be- 
headed. This service was performed by an In- 
dian, who, as he stood over Philip, said : "You 
have been one very great man. You have 
made many a man afraid of you. But so big as 
you be, I will chop you to pieces." 

QUESTIOiNS. 

1. What was the first Indian war called ? When did it begin ? 

2. What is said of the Pequot tribe ? Where did they live ? Who was 
tlieir chief sachem ? What is said of him ? 

3 What two forts had the Pequots ? How did they treat the English t 
4. How many men did the English raise for the war ? By what towns 



42 CHILD S HISTORY 

were they raised ? Who commanded them ? By whom were they as- 
sisted ? Where did the Narragansett? live ? 

5. What was the fate of the Pequots ? Was this war just on the part 
of the English ? Why ? 

6. When did the next Indian war begin ? What was this war called ? 
Why ? Of what tribe was Philip the sachem ? Where was his fort ? 

7. What is said of the grandfather of Philip ? What is said of Philip 
himself ? Why was Philip an enemy to the English ? What did he de- 
termine to do ? 

8. To effect his purpose, what did he do ? How did this war compare 
with the Pequot war 1 

9. What were surprised ? Who were killed ? Vvliat did the inhabitants 
at Brookfield do ? How long did the Indians surround this house ? In 
what way did they attempt to set fire to the house ? 

10. At another time, where did the English troops follow the Indians ? 
What tribe was this ? In the fort and village, how many Indians were 
there supposed to be ? What became of the fort, wig-wams, and Indians ? 

11. When did the war end ? What was the occasion ? Where was 
Philip discovered ? Who was with him ? What did Captain Church order 
his soldiers to do ? 

12. Who attempted to shoot Philip as he fled ? Why did he fail ? Who 
did kill him ? 

13. What was done with Philip ? Who beheaded him ? What did 
the Indian say ? 

STORY. 

1. My story, at this time, will be about Ca-non-chet and 
PUlip. 

2. Canonchet was the friend of Philip. He was the sa- 
chem of the Narragansetts, a tribe which I told you lived 
in Rhode Island. Canonchet was a proud chief, and a 
bold warrior. 

3. After the swamp fight, of which I have told yon. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 43 

some English troops came upon him. He fled before them, 
and plunged himself into a river. But his foot slipping, he 
fell, and was taken as he rose. On being taken, he said, 
that he was now only like " a rotten stick." 

4. But his appearance was still noble. His eye was 
black ; and keenly was it fixed upon the English. They 
were struck with the majesty of his looks. A young En- 
glish soldier asked him a question. The proud warrior 
replied, " You are a child : I answer no question of yours. 
Let your chief come, I v/ill answer him." 

5. Canonchet was doomed to die. " Well," said he " 1 
wish to die — I wish to die, before I have spoken any thing 
unworthy of Canonchet. '^ 

6. Philip was as proud as Canonchet, and a still greater 
man. He was a warrior of a lofty spirit — bold and pow- 
erful ; and, at the same time, artful and treacherous. 

7. To the English, after the war began, his name was a 
constant terror. Wherever he passed, he spread dismay 
around him — he asked no favour for himself or his fol- 
lowers, and shewed none to his enemies. 

8. After all, let not Philip be too severely condemned. 
Jle was a savage, and lived in savage times. He had 
had no religious instruction — no, he was a heathen an 



44 child's history 

unenlighted heathen, who sought glory in war, and revenge 
for injuries. 

9. Philip had some reason, too, to think that the English 
were his enemies. He was a king, and had a just claim to 
the country. He thought the English wished to drive him 
and his followers away, and get their lands for nothing. 
In this he mistook. But, perhaps, the English were not 
sufficiently cautious, not to excite his suspicions. 

10. If such were his belief, is it strange that he was 
roused ? Who would not fight for country, for wife and 
children ? For these he fought, fought like a hero, fought 
like a patriot ; and, we may add, fought like a savage ! 

11. It was sad, indeed, that Philip was so jealous of the 
English. A more dreadful war was never known in Ameri- 
ca, than Philip's war. Yet, the blood shed in it might have 
been saved, had he only been convinced that the English 
were his friends. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



45 




Meeting of MrS. Dustan and family, p. 49. 

LESSON VII. 

KING WILLIAM'S WAR. 

1. Philip's war ended, as I told you, in 1676. 
The English people in America had now a 
period of rest. But this did not last long. Ano- 
ther war came. It was called ''King William^ s 
war.^^ It began in 1690. 

2. William was king of England. Louis XIV 
was king of France. Louis declared war against 
William. 



46 child's history 

3. The people who had settled in that part of 
America, now called the United States, were 
subjects of King William. The people in Cana- 
*da had come from France, and were subjects 
of King Louis. 

4. When Louis had declared war against 
William, he sent orders to his people in Canada 
to make war upon the Enghsh people, who had 
setded in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and other 
places. 

5. This war lasted seven years. Many In- 
dians fought with the French, against the En- 
glish. They frequently came down from Cana- 
da, sometimes in the midst of winter ; they sur- 
prised towns in the dead of night, killed the 
inhabitants, and burnt their houses. 

6. One winter, in the month »f February, a 
party of French and Indians came to Schenectady, 
This place Ues sixteen miles west of Albany. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 4f 

They came in the dead of night : it was a cold 
and piercing night. The snow was deep, and 
still it was snowing fast ; the people were all 
asleep. The place was burnt; sixty of the 
inhabitants were slain ; and many who escaped 
were frozen to death. 

7. This war ended in 1697. 

QUFSTIONS. 

1. Wheii did the Pequot war end ? What is said of the state of the 
English people after this ? Did peace last long ? What was the war 
called which now succeeded ? What j^ear did it beoin ? 

2. Who was William ? Who was Louis XIV T Against whom did 
Louis declare war ? 

3. What people in America were subjects of King William ? What 
people were subjects of King Louis 1 

4. After war was declared, what order did Louis send to his people in 
Canada? 

5. How long did this war last ? Who fought with the French ? When 
did they come down from Canada ? What did they do ? 

6. What place did they attack in February ? Which way is Schenectady 
from Albany ? How many miles ? Was it a clear, or a stormy night"? 
Were the inhabitants asleep or awake ? What became of the place ? 
How many of the people were killed ? What befel many others ? 

7. When did the war end ? 

STORY. 
1. King William's war ended in 1697. In the winter 
of that year a sad event took place, and to that my story 
relates. 



48 child's history 

2. There lived at Haverhill, in Massachusetts, a Mr. 
Dustan. He had a wife and eight children. They were 
all small. One was a little babe only a week old ; and 
Mrs. Dustan was still sick. 

oJ. One day, Mr. Dustan, while in the field at work, saw 
a party of Indians crossing the field, towards his house. 
He mounted his- horse, and on reaching the house, took his 
little children and put them in the road, and told them to 
run, and he would soon follow. 

4. By this time the Indians had arrived. He was oblig- 
ed to leave Mrs. Dustan and the babe, and re-mounting his 
horse, he fled. He soon came up with his little children, 
though they ran as fast as they were able. He looked back, 
and some of the Indians were coming — what should he do '? 

5. For a moment, he thought that he would take up the 
little boy or girl that he loved best, and flee. But which 
should he choose ? He loved them all ; and he could not 
choose. He told them to run fast, and he would try to 
check the Indians. 

6. He stopped his horse, and the children fled. He load 
ed his gun. The Indians soon came up. He fired, and 
again he fled. The Indians fired, but the balls touched hira 
not, and touched not the children. God preserved them. 

7. Again Mr. Dustan halted, and again loaded his gun ; 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 49 

and when the Indians came up, he fired, and they fired 
also. But the same kind Providence protected him; and, 
at length, he and all his little children safely reached a 
house, and the Indians went back. 

8. I wish I could add, that Mrs. Dustan and her little 
babe were safe ; but, it was not so. The babe was killed, 
and its poor mother, though sick, the savages compelled to 
travel, weak as she was, one hundred and fifi;y miles. 

9. She now expected to be killed. But, one night, 
while the Indians were asleep, she made her escape, with 
two other prisoners. A long and dreary wilderness lay be- 
fore them, which they traveresd with much toil ; but, at 
length, they reached Haverhill. She found that her house 
was burned, but her husband was spared, and her seven 
little children. 

10. The meeting between the mother and the children, 
[ shall not attempt to describe. I dare say that they flock- 
ed about her ; and I dare say, too, that each one imprinted 
a kiss Mpon her cheek, and each was kissed many a time 
in return. 

11. How thankful should children be, at the present day, 
that these are no Indians to injure them, either by night or 
by day. It is God who causes them to see better days, and 
Him they should love and serve. 

4 



60 



child's history 




Massacre and burning at Deerfield, by the Indians, p. 52. 

LESSON VIII. 

QUEEN ANNE'S WAR. 

1. Queen Anne ascended the throne of Eng- 
land in 1 702. That year, war was again declar- 
ed between France and England. It was called 
" Queen Jlnne's war^ And now the French in 
Canada, and the English colonies in America, 
were again engaged against each other. 

2. The Indians in Canada assisted the French, 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 61 

and often came down with them upon the Eng- 
lish, as they had done during King WilUam's 
war. Several towns were burned, and much 
alarm and distress were caused. 

3. The colonies which suffered the most, dur- 
ing this war, were those of Massachusetts and 
New Hampshire. 

4. This wdiY ended in 1713. It had lasted 
eleven years ; but, Hke most other wars, httle 
good was done by it. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did Queen Anne ascend the throne of England ? In whal 
year was war declared between France and England ? What was this 
war called ? What people in America were now engaged against each 
other ? 

2. Who assisted the French in this war ? In what manner did the 
French and Indians treat the English ? 

3. Which colonies suffered the most ? 

4. V.Oien did the war end ? How long had it lasted ? What good had 
it brought to pass ? 



STORY. 

1. My story mast again be a sad one. 

2. In the winter of 1704, three hundred French and 
Indians came into Deerfield, in Massachusetts. It was in 



52 child's history 

the dead of night. The inhabitants were asleep. Some 
persons had been set to keep watch ; but they were asleep 
also. 

3. At length, the Indians and French approached the 
house of Mr. Williams. He was the minister of Deerfield. 
They broke open his door — seized him — bound him — 
aud kept him standijig in the cold an hour, without his 
clothes. 

4. Next, they killed two of his children, and a servant 
of his family. Other savages had set fire to the town, and 
the flames were now rolling upward from every quarter. 
But one house was left standing, and in that the marks of 
the bullets might be seen for many years after. 

5. Forty-seven persons were killed, and one hundred 
taken into captivity. Among the latter were Mr. Williams 
and his family. The next day, Mrs. Williams was killed 
in sight of her husband, and seventeen others shared a 
similar fate before the party reached Canada. 

6. Mr. Williams was kept a prisoner for two years. At 
me end ol tins time, he was permitted to return to Deer- 
field, with fifty-seven of his people. After this, he preach- 
ed for twelve years ; and, at length, went to his ^rave in 
peace. 



OF THE UNITED STATES, 



m 




V'anv of Quebec, p. 57. 

LESSON IX. 

FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 

1. Queen Anis^e's war, I said, ended in 1713. 
From this date, w^e shall pass rapidly on to the 
year 1756. In this latter year, the ''French and 
Indian^^ war began. 

2. Between these two wars, was a period of 
forty-two years ; and, during this time, the Eng- 
lish colonies in America flourished. The inha- 



54 CHILD S HISTORY 

bitants increased; agriculture was improved; 
commerce was extended ; but manufactures did 
not flourish. The people in England were un- 
willing that the Americans should manufacture 
cloth or hats, and scarcely any thing else ; be- 
cause they wished the Americans to purchase 
of them. Still the colonies flourished. In 1756, 
the thirteen colonies contained more than a mil- 
lion of inhabitants. 

3. This year the French and Indian war 
began. On the other side of the Atlantic, the 
war was carried on between England and 
France. In America, it was carried on between 
the English colonies, and the French and Indians 
in Canada. 

4. This was an important war. In former 
wars, the Enghsh colonies had found it enough 
to defend their own territory. In this war, they 
sent troops to Canada to attack the French there. 



^^ 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 55 

The English troops amounted to eight thousand. 
They were commanded by General Wolfe. 

5. The French troops were commanded by 
General Montcalm. Sept. 13th, 1759, the two 
armies met near Quebec. A bloody battle en- 
sued. General Wolfe was killed. General 
Montcalm was wounded, in consequence of 
which he died. The Enghsh were victorious. 
The city of Quebec fell into the hands of the 
English. 

6. This led the way to further success. All 
Canada was conquered; and since that time, 
this part of America has been owned by the 
King of England. The war ended in 1763. It 
had lasted nearly seven years. 

7. During this war, the English colonists 
proved themselves to be a brave people. They 
spent much money, and at the close of the war 
they found themselves poor. They were not 



56 child's history 

well treated by England. It was, after all, her 
war, and she ought to have paid them back the 
money which they had spent: but she would 
not do it, and they could not help themselves, 
because they had no power to compel her to do 
them justice. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did Queen Anne's war end 1 When did the French and In- 
dian war begin ? 

2. How Ions' was it between these two wars ? What was the state of 
the English colonies during this period 1 What is said of their increase ? 
What of agriculture ? What of commerce ? What of manufactures ? 
Why were the people of England unwilling that the Americans should 
manufacture for themselves 1 How many inhabitants did the colonies 
contain in 1756 ? 

3. When did the war begin ? Between whom was the war carried on, 
on the other side of the Atlantic 1 In America, between whom ? 

4. In former wars, what had the English colonies found it enough for 
themselves to do 1 In this war, where did they send troops ? What num- 
ber ? Who commanded them ? 

5. Who commanded the French troops ? When did the two armies 
meet ? Near what place ? What ensued ? Who was killed ? Who was 
wounded? What became of General Montcalm ? Who were victorious 1 
What city was taken ? By whom ? 

6. To what did this lead 1 What country was conquered ? By 
whom has it been since owned 1 When did this war end ? How long 
had it lasted 1 

7. During this war, what did the English colonies prove themselves to 
be ? What did they spend ? What is said of them at the close of the 
war ? Were they well treated by England ? What ought she to have 
done ? Did she pay them ? Why could not they help themselves ? 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 57^ 

STORY. 

1. The capture of Quebec, my pupils should know, was 
an important and wonderful event. 

2. I will first tell them why it was important. It was 
important, because it may be said to have put an end to the 
war. The whole of Canada soon fell into the power of 
the English. 

3. It was important, too, because it put an end to a long 
course of bloody wars. The English colonies had suffered 
greatly from the French and Indians, during the wars of 
King William and dueen Anne; and now, during the 
French and Indian war. But they had no more to fear, 
now that Canada belonged to the English. 

4. The capture of Q-uebec was also a wonderful event, 
because it was thought impossible to take it. And I think 
you will say, that General Wolfe and his troops were bold 
and brave men to have attempted it. 

5. At the beginning of the lesson is a view of Quebec, 
as you would see it, were you sailing towards it down the 
river St. Lawrence. Look back at the picture, and I will 
explain how the city was taken by the English. 

6. You see by the picture, that the upper part of Que- 
bec is built on a high bank. From the level of the water 



58 

to the highest point, it is three hundred and forty-five 
feet. General Wolfe well knew that he could not cap- 
ture the place, unless he could succeed in reaching these 
heights. 

7. On the twelfth of September — this was in the year 
1759 — one hour after midnight, he put his troops on board 
some boats, and directed his course to a cove, or small bay, 
mto which you see a vessel is entering. The boats enter- 
ed this cove, which is now called '* Wolfe's Cove ;" and 
here, under the precipice, they landed, a mile and a half 
above the city. 

8. Even here the precipice was nearly two hundred feet 
high, and quite steep. Yet, steep and rugged as it was, 
Wolfe led his army up, and formed them on the plains 
above, within sight of the city. These plains ar^^ called 
the " Plains of Ab?'ahajn." The towers which you see 
have been built since that time, and are called the " 3Iar- 
tcllo Tu7versJ' 

9. Here, on this plain, the army of Wolfe and the army 
of Montccilm met. They were nearly equal in numbers, 
and together amounted to ten thousand men. 

10. The battle was desperate and bloody. Early in the 
action. General Wolfe was wounded in the wrist, and 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



6§ 



soon after another bullet entered near his thigh, and a 
third followed, which pierced his breast. He sunk upon 
the shoulder of a soldier, and was soon in the agonies of 
death. At this moment, the shout of " They fly ! they 
fly ! " was heard. For a moment, he raised himself, and 
eagerly asked, "Who fly?" and being told it was the 
French, he said, "I die contented!" 

11. The battle now went on. The French fled, and 
were slaughtered by hundreds, with the bayonet and broad 
sword. The brave Montcalm was mortally wounded ; and 
the arms of the English were completely victorious. 



60 



child's history 




The inhabitants of Boston hanging the Tory image, p. 64. 

LESSON X. 

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION— STAMP ACT. 

1. The "War of the Revolution" began in 
1775. It is SO called, because it ended in the 
Independence of America, 

2. Until this time, the colonies in America 
were subject to the King of England. The 
country was setded by his subjects, and it was 



OF THE UNITED STATES. G§ 

considered right, therefore, that he should govern 
it. 

3. This, the colonists were willing he should 
do, so long as his laws were just and good. 
They had come from England, and they loved 
the English people, and they respected the 
King, who was then George III. 

4. But neither the Ejing, nor the people in 
England, loved the Americans as much. They 
were at that time jealous of them. They feared 
that at some future time the Americans would 
become rich and powerful, and wish to separate 
from them. 

5. The Americans were, indeed, prospering. 
They now amounted to more than three millions 
of people. The statesmen in England said, 
they were growing too fast; they would soon 
become proud and independent. Something 
must be done to keep them in check. 



62 CHILD S HISTORY 

6. At length, it was resolved to tax the 
Americans. This would take away their mo- 
ney, and keep them poor. The first tax was 
imposed in 1764. In that year, it was ordered 
that the Americans should pay a certain sum on 
all the sugar, indigo, coffee, &c. which should 
be taken from England to use in America. 

7. In 1 765, the English Parhament went still 
farther, and passed an act, called the ''Stamp 
Jlct ;^^ that is, a duty, or tax, on every piece of 
paper used for notes, deeds, wills, &.c. It was 
called the "Stamp Act," because each piece 
of paper had a stamp upon it, representing a 
crown. 

8. This act was very odious to the Ameri- 
cans. They thought it unjust ; and they re- 
solved not to submit to it. 

9. The next year, 1 766, the act was repealed. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 0S» 

QUESTIONS. 

1 . When did the war of the Revolution be^in ? Why was it so called ? 

2. Until this time, to whom were the colonists in America subject ? By 
whom had the country been settled 1 What right had the King-, therefore ? 

3. How long were the colonists willing the -King should govern them ? 
How did they regard the English people ? How the King ? Who was 
the King ? 

4. How did the King and people in England regard the Americans f 
What did they fear ? 

5. Were the Americans prosperous ? What was their number ? What 
did the statesmen of England say ? 

6. What did they resolve to do ? In what year was this ? What was 
ordered this year ? What act was passed in 1765 ? What was meant by 
ihe stamp act ? Why was it so called ? 

8. What did the Americans think of this act ? What did they resolve 
about it ? 

9. When was the act repealed ? 

STORY 

1. I have told you how odious and unjust the Americans 
thought the stamp act was : and it was unjust. The people 
in England had no right to take money from the Ameri- 
cans, in this manner. 

2. When the day arrived, on which the stamp act was to 
take effect, the people in many parts of America met toge- 
ther, to express, in one manner and another, how much 
they disliked it. 

3. I will tell you what took place in Boston. On that 
morning, all the bells of the city were tolled, as if for a 
funeral. The merchants closed their stores, and the me- 



64 child's history 

chanics their shops. During the day, the people met in 
great numbers, and formed the image of a man. This 
image represented a tory. A tory was one who took part 
with England. Those who took part against England, and 
against the stamp act, were called wJiigs. 

4. When they had formed this image, they dressed it in 
clothes, and put a hat upon it, and raised it upon a pole. 

5. They then carried it about the streets, and huzzaed, 
swinging their hats, and throwing stones. At length, they 
hung it upon a gallows. 

6. The people in England heard how the Americans felt^ 
and how they acted ; and the King and Parliament thought 
best to repeal the act. In this they did wisely. 



^n^ 

n 



OF THK U.VlTED STATES. 



65' 




The Bostonians throwing the Tea overboard, p. 66; 



LESSON XI. 
WAR OF THE REVOLUTION — DESTRUCTION OF TEA. 

1. The stamp act was repealed, as I said, 
in 1766. This filled the Americans with joy. 
They thought the King and Parliament would 
tax them no more. 

2. But they mistook. Not long after, the 
Parliament taxed them again, in another way. 



66 child's history 

They laid a tax on glass, paper, and tea. 
Several cargoes of tea were sent to, America, 
But the Americans resolved, that they v^ould 
buy none, because they would not pay the tax 
laid upon it. 

3. One cargo of this tea was sent to Boston. 
On its arrival, the people resolved that it should 
not even be landed. To prevent the landing, 
several persons assembled at the wharf, dressed 
hke Mohawk Indians ; and, going on board the 
ship, they took three hundred and forty -two 
chests of tea — the whole cargo — snd pitched it 
into the sea. This was in the year 1773. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When was the stamp act repealed ? How did the Americans feel 
about it ? What did they now think ? 

2. Did they think right ? What did the King and Parliament soon after 
do 1 What articles did they tax 1 What did the people resolve about the 
tea sent over ? Why ? 

3. To what place was one of the cargoes sent ? When it arrived, what 
did the people resolve ? What did they do with the tea ? How wer© 
they dressed, who threw the tea overboard ? How many chests were 
thrown into the water ? In what year was this ? 



OF THE UNITED STATES. &J 

STORY. 

1. The destruction of the tea, about which I have told 
you, was a bold affair. It was an act of open opposition 
to the King and Parliament. Had the persons concerned 
in pitching it into the ocean been discovered, they would 
have come to harm. But each one kept his own secret, 
and that of his neighbour. 

2w It was an act, too, of some self-denial. It was good 
tea, no doubt; and ^^ a good cup of ted!^ of an afternoon, 
every one knows, is quite refreshing. At that day, tea 
was not as common as now ; and, when first brought to 
America, some persons, it is said, not knowing how to use 
it, fried it ; but the proper mode of using it was soon dis- 
covered, and it became quite fashionable. 

3. Tea-lovers would regret the loss of so much tea. But, 
then, their patriotism was stronger than their appetite. 
They would not drink tea, if they must be slaves: "No," 
said they — said all ; " give us freedom, with only a cup of 
cold water," 

4. Of the whole cargo, not a single chest — not even a 
pound, was saved. A sm^W phial of it only was preserved, and 
that has been kept quite choice, and is now somewhere in 
Boston. A hundred years hence, what a curiosity it will be. 

5. The above phial of tea was preserved in the following 



68 child's history 

way : one of the persons who assisted in pitching the cargo 
into the ocean, found, on his return home, his shoes filled 
with it. This he put into a phial, sealed it, and so much 
has been preserved, 

6. Another person present designed to save some, and 
filled one of his coat pockets. A companion near by saw 
what he was about, but said nothing. By and by, when 
the cargo was safely overboard, this person came softly up 
behind the other, and taking hold of the skirt of his coat, 
cut it off, and threw it into the sea. 

7. One of the chests thrown overboard happened not to 
break. Whether it was vexed at the treatment it had re- 
ceived in Boston, I shall not undertake to say. It soon 
cleared out of the harbour, and coasting along, floated into 
Dorchester. But here it was still worse treated. On its 
arrival, it was seized by some of the inhabitants, who car- 
ried it into the centre of the town, where, assembling a 
multitude of people, it was publicly hurned. 

8. Now, what sort of people do you think the people of 
the Revolution were ? Who were ever bolder, or more 
self-denying? The destruction of a cargo of tea, under 
some circumstances, would have been a small affair : the 
destruction of that cargo was an enterprise of great daring, 
and will tell well a thousand years to come. 



OF THE UKITED STATES. 69 




Mr. Wheeler saving the public flour from destruction, p. 73. 

LESSON XII. 

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION — BATTLE OF LEXINGTON 

1. The destruction of the tea at Boston and 
other places, sorely vexed the people in Eng- 
land ; and the King and Parhament sent ten 
thousand soldiers to America, to make the peo- 
ple here behave better. | 

2. The same year, men were sent from the 
eleven colonies to Philadelphia, to consult what 



70 child's history 

should be done. This was called the " Conti- 
nental Congress." They agreed that no more 
goods should be brought from England, and 
none sent thither, until the Eang should treat 
the Americans more justly. 

3. I must say a few things about this Congress. 
It was the first general Congress ever held in 
America. The men who composed it were dis- 
tinguished for their courage and Avisdom. I will 
add some verses about them, which were written 
by Judge Trumbull. You must learn them ; — 
they are very beautiful. If you do not now 
understand them, you will, when you are older. 

" Now meet the fathers of the western ollme,— 
Nor names more noble graced the rolls of fame 
When Spartan firmness braved the wrecks of time, 
Or Latian virtue fann'd th' heroic flame. 

*' Not deeper thought th' immortal sage inspired, 
On Solon's* lips when Grecian Senates hung ; 
Nor manlier eloquence the bosom fired, 
When genius thundered from the Athenianf tongue." 



A distinguished Grecian lawgfiver. f Demosthenes, an eloquent orator of Athei s 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 71 

4. The English soldiers sent to America were 
stationed at Boston They were commanded 
by General Gage. 

5. The Americans had stored some provi- 
sions, powder, and ball, at Concord, eighteen 
miles north of Boston. These, General Gage 
determined to destroy. For this purpose, he 
sent eight hundred soldiers to Concord. These 
troops were commanded by Major Pitcairn, an 
English officer. 

6. On reaching Lexington, on their way to 
Concord, some American people, inhabitants of 
Lexington, were seen standing near the meet- 
ing house, with their guns. Major Pitcairn, rid- 
ing up to them, insultingly told them " to dis- 
perse ;" and when they would not disperse, he 
ordered his soldiers to fire, and eight were kill- 
ed, and others wounded. 

7. This is called the ^'battle of Lexington 



72 child's history 

The blood here shed, was the first blood shed 
in the war of the revolution. The battle took 
place April 19th, 1775. The war, from this 
time, began. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. How did the people in England feel about the destruction of the tea ? 
How many soldiers were sent to America ? For what purpose ? In what 
year was this ? 

2. In what year did the Continental Congress meet ? How many colo- 
nies sent delegates ? Where did they meet ? What did they agree upon ? 

3. What is said of this Congress ? For what were the men who com- 
posed it, distinguished 1 Can you repeat the verses written by Judge 
Trumbull about them ? 

4. Where were the English soldiers sent to America, stationed ? Who 
commanded them ? 

5. Where had the Americans placed provisions, powder, and ball ? 
Which way is Concord from Boston ? How many miles ? How majiy 
soldiers did General Gage send to destroy the provisions, powder, &c. ? 
Who commanded them ? Who was Major Pitcairn 1 

G. At what place did they meet some of the Americans with guns ? 
What did Major Pitcairn bid these people do ? Did they obey ? What 
did he then bid his soldiers do ? How many were killed ? 

7. What was this battle called ? What is said of the blood here slied ? 
In what year did this take place ? In what month ? On what day ? 
When did the war begin ? 



STORY. 

1. The English soldiers, after the battle of Lexington,:?^ 

proceeded to Concord, and there threw five hundred pounds 

of ball into the river and wells. They also destroyed about 



■ 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 73 

sixty barrels of flour. A considerable quantity of flour was 
saved by a Mr. Wheeler. The flour was stored in his 
barn. Some of it was his own ; the rest of it belonged to 
the public. 

2. The British officers and soldiers, after searching sev- 
eral stores and barns, came to the barn of Mr. Wheeler. It 
was locked. A British officer told him to get the key and 
open it. He did so : when, lo ! a large number of barrels 
of flour were in sight. The officer called his soldiers to 
come and destroy them. 

3. " Sir," said Mr. Wheeler, putting his hand on to a 
barrel, "This is my flour. I am a miller, sir. Yonder, 
stands my mill. I get my living by ix. In the winter, ] 
grind a great deal of grain, and get it ready for the market 
in the spring. This," pointing to one barrel, " is the flour 
of wheat ; this," pointing to another, *is the flour of corn; 
this is the flour of rye. This," putting his hand on to his 
own casks, " is my flour, this is my wheat, this is my rye." 
He told the truth : the barrels upon which he put his hand, 
v)cre his. The officer thought they were all his. Mr. 
Wheeler was under no obligation to undeceive him. What 
he said was the truth : this was right. 

4. "Well," said the officer, "we do not intend to injuie 



74 child's history 

private proverty." Upon this, he turned and went out, 
leaving many barrels belonging to the public, untouched. 

5. I must add a word more about the battle of Lexing- 
ton. The news of this battle spread. The country was 
filled with alarm and indignation. War was now certain. 
Hundreds shouldered their muskets round the country, and 
hastened to Boston, to assist in defending the country. 

6. Every true American was filled with zeal. The con- 
duct of General Putnam may serve as an example of the 
ardour which was felt. He lived at Pomfret, in Connecti- 
cut, one hundred miles from Boston. When the news of 
the battle of Lexington reached Pomfret, he was ploughing 
in his field. He left his plough in the very furrow where 
it was, when the story was told him. Without changing 
his clothes, he mounted his horse, and, in a single day, 
was in the neighborhood of Boston. This was the same 
General Putnam, who once showed so much courage in 
killing a wolf. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



75 



^ 


^ 




iliH 


^M 


^^g 


-^if! 


r^^^BH 


^^^ 


-■-■ -^ ' .'^--i 


?'—■-- 


i:^."^l^>i3 



The inhabitants of New York pulling- down the statue of George III. p. 79. 

LESSON XIII. 

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. — BUNKER HILL — GENERAL 
WASHINGTON — INDEPENDENCE. 

1. The battle of Lexington was fought, as I 
told you, April 1 9th, i 775. On the 1 7th of June, 
another battle was fought. This is called the 
''Battle of Bunker Hill:' Bunker Hill is in the 
vicinity of Boston. 

2. This was a hard fought battle. The Ame- 
ricans had only one hundred and fifteen killed, 



76 

and three hundred wounded. The British had 
more than two hundred killed, and more than 
eight hundred wounded. This was a great dif- 
ference ; but the Americans did not fire till the 
British were close at hand, and then they took 
good aim. General Putnam told the American 
soldiers how to manage. "Powder and ball are 
scarce," said he, "and you must not imste them.. 
Don't fire till you can see the ivhites of their 
eyes — fire low — fire at their loaistbands. You 
are all marksmen," said he; "you could kill a 
squirrel at a hundred yards. Take good aim — 
pick off the handsome coats. This they did, 
and the enemy fell by scores. 

3. At length, however, the Americans were 
obliged to retreat, because they had used all 
their powder and ball. The battle showed the 
British what Yankees could do. 

4. On the 2d of July, General Washmgton 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 7t 

arrived at Cambridge, near Boston, and took 
command of the American army. He was ap- 
pointed commander-in-chief by the Continental 
Congress. He proved to be a great general, 
and was afterwards called the "Father of his 
country." 

5. The next year, 1776, on the 4th day of 
July, the thirteen American colonies were de- 
clared "free and independent." This declara- 
tion was made by the Continental Congress, at 
Philadelphia. Mr. Jefferson, afterwards Presi- 
dent of the United States, wrote the declaration. 
All the members of Congress signed it. This 
was a great event, because it declared to the 
world, that the Americans thought they ought 
to be free. It also showed their determination 
to be free and independent. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. "When did the battle of Lexington occur ? When the battle of Bun- 
Iter Hill ? Where is Bunker Hill f 



78 

2. How many Americans were killed in this battle ? How many were 
wounded ? How many of the British were killed ? How many wounded ? 
What did General Putnam tell the American soldiers ? 

3. Why were the Americans oblig^ed to retreat ? What did this battle 
show ? 

4. When did General Washington take command of the American 
army? Who appointed him commander-in-chief? What did he prove 
to be ? What was he afterwards called ? 

5. When were the American colonies decfered to be free and indepen- 
dent ? By whom ? Who wrote the Declaration ? Who signed it ? 
Why was this a great event ? 



STORY. 

1. The 4th of July, every child knows, is called '^Inde- 
pendence Day.^' It is a great day, in almost every town 
in the United States. No wonder it should be thought a 
great day — no wonder every one should rejoice — because, 
on that day, in 1776, the Americans declared that George 
III. the King of England, should rule over them no more. 

2. It was a bold act to declare the colonies free and in- 
dependent. Had those who signed the declaration been 
taken by the British, they would have been hung. This 
they well knew. But they were brave and steadfast men 
They loved their country, and were willing to hazard their 
lives for her good. 

3. After they had signed the declaration, it was printec^. 
and thousands of copies were sent abroad, into every part 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 79^ 

of the country. Great rejoicings took place every where-— 
all the bells were rung, in token of joy — cannon were 
fired, and large bonfires were kindled. 

4. I must tell you what the people in New York did. In 
a certain spot, in that city, there stood a large statue, or 
representation, of King George III. It was made of lead. 
In one hand, he held a sceptre, or a kind of sword ; and on 
his head, he wore a crown. 

5. When the news of the Declaration of Independence 
reached the city, a great multitude were seen running to 
this statue. The cry was heard from a hundred voices, 
**Down with it — down with it!" and soon a rope was 
placed about its neck, and the leaden King George " came 
tumbling down." 

5. I shall only add, that when the statue was fairly down, 
it was cut to pieces, and converted into musket balls, to 
kill the soldiers whom his majesty had sent over to fight 
the Americans. 



80 



CHILD'S HISTORY 




The English olhcer questioning Mrs. Uarrah. |). 8.3. 

LESSON XIV. 

RETREAT OF WASHINGTON— BATTLES OF TRENTON, 
BRANDYWINE, AND GERMANTOWN. 

1. Congress declared the colonies free and 
independent July 4th, 1776. The war, how- 
ever, lasted for several years ; and, during this 
period, the Americans contended nobly to effect 
their independence, and to drive the British from 
the country. 



OF THE UX^ITED STATES. 81 

2. But now, a deep gloom overspread the 
land. This was in the fall of 1776. General 
Washington's army was reduced to three thou- 
sand men. He was obliged to retreat from 
Long Island into New Jersey, and afterwards 
into Pennsylvania. During this retreat, the army 
suffered the greatest hardships. The soldiers 
had poor provisions ; and not enough even of 
them. They had few blankets, and few shoes. 
The ground over which they passed was often 
stained with their blood. 

3. In December, however, the prospect bright- 
ened. General Washington and his army re- 
turned into New Jersey, and there fought the 
^''battle of Trenton.^' In this battle, the Ameri- 
cans took a thousand prisoners. These prison- 
ers were "Hessians." They came from a place 
called Hesse, in Germany. 

4. The next year — that is, in 1777, — in Sep- 

6 



82 CHILD'S HISTORY 

tember, was fought the ''battle of Brandywine,^^ 
in Delaware. Another battle was fought in 
October. This was the ''battle of Germantown,'' 
six miles from Philadelphia. In both these bat- 
tles the Americans lost ground. 

5. The season w^as now growing late. After 
the battle of Germantown, the British army 
retired to Philadelphia, w^here they spent the 
winter. The American army passed the winter, 
fifteen miles from Philadelphia. 

6. This was a trying winter for the American 
army. Three thousand were sick, at one time. 
Once, they were in danger of famine. The 
soldiers were obliged to He in their tents, with- 
out blankets ; and to walk in the snow, and on 
frozen ground, without shoes. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When was independence declared ? Did the war continue after this ? 
Why did the Americans fight 1 

2. What is said of the state of thinp in the fall of 1776 ? To what num- 
ber was the American army reduced ? Where was General Washington 
obliged to retreat 1 Did the army suffer? For what ? 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 83 

3. When did things become brighter ? What battle was fought ? How 
many prisoners were taiien by the Americans ? What were they called ? 
From what country did they come '.' 

4. When was the battle ot'Brandywine fought 1 Where is Brandywine ? 
When the battle of Germantown ? Where is Germantown ? What was 
the success of the Americans in these battles ? 

5. Where did the British army spend the winter 1 Where the Ameri 
can army ? 

6. What is said of the American army this winter ? How many were 
sick at one time? Of what were they in danger? From what other 
causes did they suffer ? 

STORY. 

1. I will now tell you a story about Lydia Doj-rah. 
She and her husband, whose name was William, lived in 
Philadelphia. 

2. At the time the event happened, wliich I am about 
to relate, the British army was in Philadelphia. The 
American army was encamped a short distance from it. 

3. A British officer lodged in the house of William and 
Lydia Darrah. One day the officer told Lydia that he 
expected two other officers to make him a visit that even- 
ing — that they would stay late — that she and her family 
might all go to bed ; and that when the officers were going 
away, he would call her to let them out. 

4. In the evening the officers came. Lydia sent all her 
family early to bed. But she could not sleep herself She 
felt anxious, and suspected mischief She could not hel^) 
listening, 



84 CHILD S HISTORY 

5. The officers were talking about attacking General 
Washington and his army, by surprise, two nights from 
that time. She heard this, went down, and flung herself 
upon the bed. The officer some time after called ; but 
she did not come. A second and a third time he called, 
and each time louder, for he thought she was asleep. A 
length he descended, and knocked at her door, soon after 
which she came, unbarred the door of the hall, and the 
officers went away. 

6. She now felt distressed. What should she do. She 
durst not tell the secret to any one, not even to her hus- 
band. The next day her plan was formed. The family 
were in want of flour ; so she told William that she would 
go and get some. William said no, that he would go. 
But Lydia wished so much to go, that he consented ; and 
yet he thought it strange that his wife should wish to go 
and purchase flour. 

7. Lydia, now taking a bag, went to General Howe, the 
chief general of the British army, and told him she wished 
to go to a certain mill, out of the city, to buy some flour, 
and askea him to give her leave to pass the British troops. 
This he readily did. 

8. When she reached the mill, she left her bag, and 
hastened forward, till she saw an American officer. '' Sir." 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 85 

said she, " I wish to tell you a secret. And then she told 
what she had heard the British officers say. "Go to Gen- 
eral Washington," said she; "tell it to him, and bid him 
be ready for the enemy. But don't betray me." 

9. Lydia now returned to the mill, took her flour and 
reached home in safety. Tlie night appointed for the ex- 
pedition arrived. The British troops were silently marched 
out of the city, and went to attack the American army. 
On their arrival. General Washington was prepared 1 Every 
cannon was loaded, and the troops marshalled for battle. 
The British were afraid to attack him, and returned to 
Philadelphia. 

10. The evening after their return, the British officer 
called Lydia to his room, and with some sternness said, 
" Lydia, we have been betrayed !" 

11. ^' Betrayed, s\x\" exclaimed she, with seeming sur- 
prise, " who could betray you?" " I know not who it was," 
replied the officer — his keen eye settling steadily upon the 
modest countenance of Lydia — "some of your family, 
perhaps?" 

12. " Sir," said Lydia, "you bid me send them all early 
to bed, and I obeyed you." " Are you sure that no one of 
them was up ? You were asleep, I well know ; for I had 



86 child's history 

to call several times, and even to knock at your door, be- 
fore I could awake you. But your family — " 

13. ' Sir,' said Lydia, ' I assure you that they Avere aJl 
asleep — I am certain for I sent them all early to bed, as 
you told me.' 

14. ''Well," said the officer, "I don't know who be- 
trayed us — but this I know, that we found General Wash- 
ington prepared to receive us; and we have marched back, 
like a parcel of fools." 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



87 




General Putnam escaping down the stone steps at Horseneck. p. 90. 

LESSON XV. 

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. — BATTLE OF SARATOGA — 
MONMOUTH— BURNING OF FAIRFIELD. 

1. I WILL now tell you of an event which 
spread great joy throughout America. This 
was the "battle of Saratoga,''^ Saratoga lies 
north of Albany, in the state of New Yoik. A 
part of the American army was near this place. 
It was commanded by General Gates. 



88 

2. Towards this place, a British army came 
from Canada. It was commanded by General 
Burgoyne. Here, in October, 1777, these two 
armies met. A battle ensued. The Americans 
were victorious. The whole British army sur- 
rendered, and became prisoners. They amount- 
ed to five thousand and seven hundred men. 
This surrender was a joyful event. It took 
place on the seventeenth day of the month. 

3. The next year, 1778, in June, was fought 
the ''battle of Monmoid;h'^ Monmouth hes sixty 
four miles from Philadelphia. It was a severe 
contest. The day was so hot that the tongues 
of the soldiers swelled out of their mouths. In 
this battle, the Americans gained some advan- 
tage. 

4. In the following year, 1779, a party of Brit- 
ish came into Connecticut, and plundered JVew 
Haven, where Yale College is situated. They 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 89 

burned Fairfield and JVorwalk, and some other 
places. Fairfield was burned just at evening. 
A thunder storm came up at the same time, and 
added greatly to the horrors of the scene. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. What event spread great joy throug^h America? Where does Sara- 
log-a lie ? Who commanded this part of the American army ? 

2. From what place did the British army come? Who comma'^ded 
them 1 When did the two armies meet ? What ensued ? Who were 
victorious ? Who surrendered ? How many surrendered ? On what day 
did this take place ? 

3. In what year was the battle of Monmouth foug-ht ? What month ? 
How far is Monmouth from Philadelphia? What is said of the day on 
which this battle was fought ? Who g-ained the advantage ? 

4. When did a party of the British come into Connecticut ? Wh?.t city 
did they plunder 1 What town did they burn ? At what time in the 
day was Fairfield burned ? What circumstance added to the horrors of 
the scene ? 



STORY. 

1, I will now tell you two stories — one about General 
Putnam, and the other about General WasJmigton. 

2. Soon after the British burned Norwalk, they march- 
ed to Horseneck. This place lies on Long Island Sound, 
about thirty miles from New York. General Putnam was 
stationed at Horseneck, with one hundred and fifty men, 
arid two cannon. The British amounted to fifteen hundred 
men. 



90 child's history 

3. General Putnam was a bold man. He placed his 
cannon on a hill, near the meeting-house ; and as the 
British advanced, the cannon were fired. At length, the 
enemy came so near that he told his men to escape into a 
swamp near by. 

4. He himself was on horseback. It seemed impossible 
that he should escape. The hill was so steep, that no horse 
could go down it, except in the direction in which the 
British were approaching. 

5. Putnam bethought himself. He had but a moment 
to think. He saw some stone steps. There were one 
hundred of them. The people had laid them, in order to 
ascend the hill to the meeting-house. 

6. It is life or death, thought Putnam, and down he 
rode. On came the British. They were sure of him. But 
when they arrived at the spot, they saw Putnam galloping 
at a distance from the hill. They were afraid to follow 
down the steps — they sent some bullets after him; but 
one, however, touched him, and that one went only through 
his hat. 

7. My other story is about General Washington. What 
I shall relate happened, I believe, at a time when a part of 
the American army was at West Point. West Point lies 
on the Hudson, sixty miles above New York. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 91 

8. Not far from this place, a gentleman lived, whom 
General Washington frequently visited. He had been a 
tory J but now pretended to be a real friend to America. 

9. One day, General Washington was at his house. 
*' Will you do me the favour, General," said he, " to dine 
with me to-morrow afternoon?" '' With all my heart," said 
General Washington. "Come at two," said he; "please 
De punctual ; and for once. General, leave your guard at 
home : come like a real friend." 

10. The next day, at one o^clock, General Washington 
mounted his horse, and, taking a bye road, in half an hour 
came to the house. The gentleman was glad to see him. 
"You are quite punctual," said he — "and all alone?" 
" Yes," replied the General, "no one with me." 

11. Dinner was not yet ready. General Washington 
and the gentleman took a walk abroad. At some distance, 
they saw a party of horseman approaching. "What can 
this mean?" asked Washington. The troop came, nearer 
— they were dressed in British uniform. "Bless me!" 
said Washington, "what can this mean?" at the same time 
looking at his friend. 

12. " Oh!" said the gentleman, " they seem to be a party 
of light horse. I beMeve they are British; but they pro- 



92 child's history 

bably mean no harm." General Washington stood caJm 
and collected. In a few minutes they came up, and the 
party dismounted. 

13. As they approached, the gentleman stepped up to 
General Washington, and tapping him on the shoulder, 
said, " General, you are my prisoner J^ " No !" said Ge- 
neral Washington — ^^ you are mine. These, sir, are my 
men. I directed them to put on British uniform — I di- 
rected them to be here before your party arrived. You 
are my prisoner. And now soldiers," said he, " take this 
false friend to the American camp." 

14. He was accordingly taken to the American camp. 
But General Washington humanely forgave him, and re- 
leased him, upon condition that he should leave the country 
for ever. 

15. I shall only add, that this man had been bribed to 
act the part he did, by the promise of an immense sum of 
money. General Washington suspected mischief, by his 
being requested to come precisely at tioo o^ clock, and to 
come without his guard. Who this gentleman was, I 
know not, but the story, it is believed, is true. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



93 





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Capture of Major Andre, p. 97. 

LESSON XVI. 

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION. — BATTLE OF CAMDEN — 
FRENCH FLEET— ARNOLD'S CONSPIRACY. 

1. We shall now hasten rapidly to the con- 
chision of the war. After the year 1779, the 
principal theatre of the war was in the southern 
colonies. 

2. In August, 1780, occurred the ''battle of 
Camden^^^ in South Carolina. Camden lies 



94 child's history 

one hundred and twenty miles north-west from 
Charleston. It was a bloody battle, and very 
distressing to the Americans. 

3. A short time before the battle of Camden, 
a party of British entered JYew Jersey, and wick- 
edly burned several villages. At one -place, 
called '' Connecticut Farms,^^ a British soldier 
walked up to the windows of the minister's 
house and shot his wife in the midst of her 
htde family. 

4. In July, an encouraging event occurred. 
This was the arrival in Rhode Island of a fleet 
of men-of-war from France, with six thousand 
French soldiers, to help the Americans in the 
war 

5. The next month, September, a very base 
plot was discovered, which came well nigh ruin- 
ing America. This was no other than a plan to 
deliver West Point into the hands of the British. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 95 

This plan was formed by General Arnold, who 
commanded at West Point, and Major Andre, a 
British officer. But General Washington dis- 
covered the plot, and defeated it. Arnold es- 
caped ; but Andre w^as taken, and hung as a spy. 
Arnold was a traitor, and for ever disgraced his 
name 

QUESTIONS. 

1. After the year 1779, where was the war chiefly carried «in ? 

2. In what year did the battle of Camden occur ? In what state is 
Camden ? How far from Charleston ? Which way 1 What is said of 
this battle ? 

3. What is said of a party of British, who entered New Jersey, a little 
before the batde of Camden 1 What took place at Connecticut Farms 1 

4. What force arrived in America in July, to help on the war 1 How 
many men came from France ? 

5. What plot was discovered in September ? What was the design of 
this plot ? Who formed it ? Who discovered and defeated it ? What 
became of Arnold ? What of Andre ? What was Arnold ? 



STORY. 

1. You will like to hear more about General Arnold and 
Major Andre. 

2. General Arnold, I told you, was in command of West 
Point, an important fortress on Hudson river, sixty miles 



96 child's history 

above New York. The importance of this post the British 
well understood, and secretly offered Arnold thirty thousand 
pounds sterling to deliver it into their hands. 

3. But could an American officer, an American patriot^ 
be bribed? Arnold was no patriot. He had conducted 
improperly some time before, and, by order of a court- 
martial, General Washington had reprimanded him. This 
he so much resented, that in anger he left the army, and 
determined upon revenge. 

4. At length, he pretended to regret his conduct ; he 
said he wished to serve his country — he wished to show 
his patriotism ; and he begged that he might have the 
command of West Point. 

5. This was all pretence. His heart was black, his in- 
tentions base. General Washington suspected him not — ■ 
no one suspected his object ; and the command of West 
Point was given to him. 

6. No sooner had he taken the command of this post, 
than he wrote to the British genera) in New York, to send 
some one, with whom he might arrange matters to deliver 
it up. 

7. The British general revealed the secret to Major An- 
dre, a young officer in the British army, who sailed up the 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 97 

river in a sloop of war, called the Vulture. On his arrival 
near West Point, he and Arnold had an interview, under 
cover of night, and there did the infamous American gen- 
eral agree to deliver up the fortress — there plotted the ruin 
of his country. 

8. A merciful Providence, however, defeated the plan. 
Andre attempted to return to New York by land ; on the 
way, he was seized by three American soldiers, to whom 
he offered all he had to be released. But they were not to 
be bribed. They took him to an American officer in the 
neighborhood, and by him he was delivered to Washington. 

9. Andre was in the morning of life — " fair, graceful, 
and accomplished." But for this one deed of infamy, his 
character was without reproach. It was painful for the 
court-martial which tried him, to condemn him ; but he 
was a spy, and they felt obliged by their oath to pronounce 
him guilty. It was painful for Washington to sign his 
death-warrant — but this duti/ required. 

10. That was a sorrowful day throughout the American 
camp, when Andre was hung. But, according to the rules 
of war, it could not be otherwise. It would not do to pai- 
don him: all knew this — all felt it; yet many were the 
tears which were shed by officers and soldiers when the 

7 



98 child's history 

noble and manly form of Andre ascended the scaffold to 
be hung. 

11. Had it been Arnold, no tears would have been shed. 
But a mysterious Providence suffered that guilty man to 
escape. He fled to New- York, and entered the British 
.service to fight against his country. 

12. Before Andre's death, Washington was bent on 
taking Arnold; and could he effect this, he might, per- 
haps, secure the pardon of the former. 

13. Arnold, I said, was in New- York. Washington 
thought of a plan, and when he had matured it, he sent 
for an officer by the name of Major Lee. 

14. " Lee," said he, as that officer entered, "read these 
papers — they will inform you of a plan, by which I hope 
to take Arnold, and save Andre." When Major Lee had 
finished reading the papers, Washington inquired, " Do 
you know a man who is qualified — one who can be 
trusted?" 

15. Lee thought, and replied, he did. His name was 
Champe — he was a sergeant — he w^as honest, and brave, 
and persevering. " Well," said Washington, " go and tell 
him the plan — tell him of the trust reposed in him — tell 
him of the danger — tell him that I will reward him." 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 99 

16. Champe hesitated — but at length consented; and 
that very night was on his way towards New York, urging 
forward a fleet horse to escape, if possible, any who might 
pursue him as a deserter. 

17. Champe was pursued by a party, hastily formed for 
that purpose. He had been seen secretly leaving the 
camp, and the captain of the day took him for a deserter. 
Lee could not well reveal the secret, and as Champe had 
the start, he bid the party take him if they could. 

18. Champe, I said, fled. He thought he might be 
pursued, and he went, as on the wings of the wind. In 
the morning, the pursuing party saw him at a distance, 
and pressed on with redoubled speed. Champe saw them 
coming, and pressed on still more rapidly ; on arriving at 
the river, he leaped from his horse into the water — swam 
to a boat, on board of which he was taken to a British ves- 
sel, and conveyed to New York. 

19. Here he found where Arnold lodged, and contrived 
a plan to seize him, and convey him some dark night 
across the Hudson, where Lee was to be in readiness to 
conduct him to Washington. 

20. Before the time arrived, however, Arnold was safe. 
lie had suddenly, and to Champe, unexpectedly, changed 



100 CHILD'S HISTORY 

his quarters, in order to go on board a vessel sailing with 
troops to Virginia. 

21. On board a vessel Champe sailed, at the same time, 
as a soldier, in the British service. But, on arriving in 
Virginia, he deserted, and returned to the American 
army. Washington did as he had promised, and Champe 
vi'as permitted to leave the army, with a handsome re- 
ward. 

22. I shall only add, respecting Arnold, that after the 
war he went to England, where, in 1801, he died, justly 
despised, not only in America, the land of his birth, but 
also in England, by every one who laid any claim to the 
character of a patriot and an honorable man. 



OF THE UNITED STATES, 



101 




General Washington taking leave of his officers. 

LESSON XVII. 

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION — BATTLE OF YORKTOWN — 
BURNING OF NEW LONDON— PEACE. 

1. On the nineteenth of October, 1781, the 
great ^^ battle of Yorktown^^ was fought. York- 
town is a small village on York river, in Virginia. 

2. In this battle, Lord Cornwallis command- 
ed the British. General Washington command -^<^* 
ed the Americans. Every thing ^vas now at 



102 CHILD S HISTORY 

stake. If the Americans could prove victo- 
rious in this battle, they might be free and in- 
dependent. 

3. They were victorious. They had the joy 
to see seven thousand British soldiers lay down 
their arms, and Lord Cornwallis surrender his 
sv/ord to General Washington. 

4. This was a great triumph for the Ameri- 
cans, and spread joy throughout all the land. 

5. While things were going on so prosper- 
ously for the Americans at Yorktown, a sad 
event took place in Connecticut. General Ar- 
nold came from New York, in a vessel, with 
troops — took fort Trumbull and fort Griswold. 
The American troops in this latter fort were 
cruelly put to death, and New London was 
burned. 

6. The war now ended. Peace was made 
November 30, 1782. In 1783, November 3 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 103 

the American army was disbanded. Decenibe- 
23, General Washington resigned his commis- 
sion as commander-in-chief of the American 
armies. 

QUESTIONS 

1. When did the battle of Yorktown take place ? Where is Yorktown? 

2. In this battle, who comuianded the British ? Who commanded the 
Americans ? 

3. Who were victorious? How many British soldiers laid dowv their 
arms ? 

4. What is said of this triumph ? 

5. What sad event took place about this time in Connecticut ? What 
forts were taken ? What troops were butchered ? What town was burned '/ 

6. When was peace made ? When was the American army disbanded ? 
When did General Washington resign his commission ? 



STOR\ . 

1. Thus ended a long and distressing war. The Ame- 
ricans had suffered much. Many a brave soldier, and a 
brave officer, had gone to their graves. But the people 
were now free and independent. 

2. General Washington had done himself immortal 
honor, and so had Lafayette, and Putnam, and Gates, and 
many others, who had fought with him. 

a It was a trying time, when General Washington took 



104 child's history 

leave of the army. The soldiers loved him and many a 
tear w^as shed when he bid them adieu 

4. It was a trying time, too, when he took leave of nia 
officers. He met them at New- York. He entered the 
room where they were. He called for a glass of wine ; 
and while he held it in his hand, and before he drank it, 
he said, " Companions in arms ! with love and gratitude 
I now take my leave of you. May your latter days be as 
prosperous and happy, as your former ones have been 
glorious and honorable." 

5. Taking them by the hand, he bade them farewell. 
They followed him to the side of the Hudson ; and, as he 
entered the boat, which was to convey him away, tears 
rolled down his cheeks, and down theirs. Waving his 
hand, as he departed, he bade them a silent adieu. 

6. Another trying hour soon came. He appeared in the 
Hall of Congress, and laid his commission upon the table. 
This was the greatest and noblest act of his life. Men 
generally feel reluctant to surrender power : he did it with 
pleasure — did it nobly; and having done it, hastened to 
his house, at Mount Vernon, in Virginia. 1 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



105 




General Washington and the Irishman, p. 108. 



LESSON XVIII. 
FEDERAL CONSTITUTION— WASHINGTON, PRESIDENT. 

1. The war now being over, and the people 
beiij^ free and independent, they had a right 
to govern themselves. 

2. September 17, 1787, the ''Federal Con- 
stitution^^ was adopted. A constitution is a 
body of rules by which a people are governed. 



106 

It was called ^^Federal^^ because the several 
states united or leagued together to adopt it. 

3. General Washington was elected the first 
President. John Adams was elected Vice- 
President. 

4. On the 30th April, 1789, General Wash- 
ington was inducted into office, in the presence 
of Congress, and of a multitude of spectators. 

5. General Washington continued in office 
eight years. Under his administration, the 
United States, as they were now called, greatly 
flourished ; and when he retired, it was said of 
him, "That he was first in war — first in peace 
— first in the hearts of his countrymen." 

QUESTIONS. 

1. The war being over, what right had the people ? 

2. Whou wis the Federal Constitution adopted ? What is a constitu - 
tion ? Why was it called Federal ? 

3. Who was elected first President ? Who Vice-President? 

4. When was General Washington inducted into office ? 

5. How long did he continue in office ? Did the country flourish, while 
he was President ? What was said of him, when he retired ? 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 107 

STORY. 

1. I have told you something about General Washing- 
ton. I could tell you much more. You ought to know, 
if you do not already know, that he was as much beloved 
as a President, as he was as a general of the army. 

2. He was a man of great kindness, and took much 
pleasure in doing good to the old revolutionary soldiers. 
He never turned away from any one, however poor. 

3. I will tell you how he one day treated an old soldier, 
who came to see him. It was on a certain day, called 
levee day — that is, when great persons call to pay their 
respects to the President. 

4. Just about the time the company were expected, an 
Irishman rapped at the door. The porter stood ready to 
open the door, expecting to admit some very distinguish- 
ed man ; when, lo ! an Irishman stood before him. He 
was a sad object to look at, but he had been a soldier ia 
the revolutionary war, and he had come to pay General 
Washington a visit. 

5. ''Is his honor at home 1 " asked the Irishman. 
" Yes," replied the porter, " but you cannot see him : he 
IS expecting company." "Well," said Pat, ''I suppose 
I may come in?" "No, you shall not come in." "But 
I will come in"- — and in he walked, and took a seat. 



108 child's history 

6. The company soon arrived — ministers of state, and 
senators, and judges — the great men and the gay; and 
there sat Pat, the whole time, with his hat under his arm, 
looking about, and thinking as how it was the finest 
company he was ever in. 

7. No one disturbed him, and he disturbed no one. 
At length, the company retired; upon which the porter 
told the President that there was an obstinate Irishman 
there. " Some old soldier, probably," said the President. 
" Let me see him." 

8. The Irishman rose, as his old general approached, 
and roared out, " Long life to your honor's excellency ! " 
at the same time he swung his hat, and, at length, hurled 
it on the floor, and stood as straight and precise as he 
once did on the battle ground. 

9. "May it plaze your honor," said Pat, "I was once 
your honor's soldier, and I have marched under your 
honor's orders, and many's the hard knock I have had 
too; and I was wounded in the battle of Germantown, 
may it plaze your honor; but they didn't kill me, for I 
believe I am alive yet. Hurra for America ! — Hurra for 
Washington! — and it does my heart good to see your 
honor once more. And how is the dear leddy and the 
little ones?" 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 109 

10. Washington could contain himself no longer. He 
laughed heartily; and thanked Pat for inquiring about 
Mrs. Washington, who, he said, was well ; but as for the 
little ones, unfortunately he had none. 

11. "Bless your honor," said Pat, "and I wish you had 
a thousand, and that they were all like your honor's self" 
Well did Washington know what Pat was after ; and slip- 
ping a piece of money into his hand, he retired — " Hurra 
for Washington !" said Pat, as he put it into his pocket. 

12. Having recovered his hat, he took up his line of 
march for the door ; and as he passed the porter, he pulled 
from his pocket the money, and called out, " There, now, 
you Hessian! see how his honor's excellence remembers 
an old soldier. Hurra for Washington ! " 



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child's history 





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Mrs. Fries supplicating President Adams to pardon her Husband, p. 1J5. 

lf:sson XIX. 

JOHiN ADAMS, PRESIDENT 

1. In 1797, Gen. Washington declined being 
President again. John Adams was now chosen 
President, and Thomas Jefferson Vice-President. 

2. The state of the country, at the time Mr. 
Adams was elected President, was prosperous. 
But soon after, France threatened to make war 
upon the United States. 



OF THE UJVITED STATES. Ill 

3. War being expected, Congress ordered air 
army to be raised, and appointed General Wash- 
ington to command it. The difficulty, however, 
was settled, and the army reduced. 

4. On the 14th December, 1799, General 
Washington died. This event filled tne country 
with gloom. Every one felt that he himself 
had sustained a great loss. 

5. In 1800, the city of Washington became 
the seat of government. Before this time. Con- 
gress had met in the city of Philadelphia. 

6. In 1801, Mr. Adams's term of office as 
President expired ; and Thomas Jefferson was 
chosen President in his room. Aaron Burr was 
chosen Vice-President. 

QUESTIONS. 

1 . When was John Adams chosen President ? Who was chosen Vice- 
President ? 

2. What was the state of the country at this time ? What nation soon 
after threatened the United States with war ? 

3. What did Congress do upon this ? Whom did they appoint to com- 
mand the anny ? What took place, however 1 



11^ child's HISTORV 

4. When did General Washing^ton die ? What is said of this event t 
6. When did the city of Washington become the seat of government ? 
6. When was Mr. Jefferson chosen President ? Who was chosen Vice- 
President^ 



STORY. 

1. I have two stories to tell about this elder President 
Adams — the one relating to his courage; the other to his 
humanity — both excellent traits in any man's character. 

2. In the year 1778, while the War of the Revolution 
was still going on, Congress appointed Mr. Adams ambas- 
sador to France. A frigate, called the Boston, was fitted 
out to convey him to that country. The commander was 
a brave man, by the name of Captain Tucker. 

3. The ocean, at that time, was thronged with British 
armed vessels, watching for American ships. A voyage, 
therefore, was attended with no small hazard. 

4. A few days after sailing, a British ship of war was 
discovered. The sight of her caused no ordinary emotions 
in the breast of Capt, Tucker. But it was not fear — no! 
fear was a stranger there. ''Oh!" thought he, "what an 
opportunity to do my country honor !" 

5. Mr. Adams perceived the workings of his patriotic 
spirit. "Do you wish to fight her?" asked the ambassa- 
dor. " With all my heart," replied the animated captain. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 113 

"Had I your leave, we would soon be down upon her," 
"Well, captain," said the ambassador, "you have my 
leave : we will all share the honor in the brush." 

6. " Ah ! your excellency," exclaimed the captain, 
''there's the rub. My orders are to convey you safely 
There must be no fighting, unless you go below." " Be- 
low ! below ! " exclaimed the ambassador, " I go below ! 
Well, I will go below — but — " 

7. The captain knew not the spirit of the man he car- 
ried, and now scarcely attended to any thing but getting 
his vessel ready for action. Every sail was immediately 
spread — every gun was loaded and manned. 

S. The battle opened at a distance, and as the ships 
neared each other, the broadsides were more frequent, 
while smaller arms filled up the intervals, Mr. Adams 
sat in the cabin peaceably for a time ; but, at length, the 
action growing warm, he could stay — he would stay — no 
longer ; he rushed on deck ; he seized a musket, and was 
doing his duty like a hero with the men, when he was 
discovered by Capt. Tucker. 

9. "What!" exclaimed the latter — "your excellency 
here? You promised to stay below. Shall I order you 
away?" "Yes, if you please," said Mr. Adams; "but 
8 



114 CHILD'S HISTORY 

I will fight while I stay." And well he did fight ; but the 
Captain said it would not do ; and when Mr. Adams, at 
length, refused to retire, the resolute captain seized him, 
and bore him in his arms by force to the cabin. 

10. My other story about Mr. Adams, relates to his hu- 
manity. The incident occurred while he was President. 

11. A certain man, by the name of John Fries, had 
been concerned with others, in an insurrection in Penn- 
sylvania, and on a charge of treason was tried, and con- 
demned to death. This sentence, Mr. Adams, as Presi- 
dent, approved. 

1*2. Fries was an old man. He had a wife and ten 
children. Several of the children were small — one was 
an infant at the breast. It was thought a pity by many 
in Philadelphia, that a man so old, with a family so de- 
pendent, should be hung. 

13. It was accordingly agreed to send a petition abroad 
among the inhabitants to be signed, begging the President 
to pardon the aged offender. The petition circulated, 
and several thousands added their names to it. 

14. When ready, the petition was handed to Mrs. Fries, 
who, with her infant in her arms, and her nine children, 
all were seen going to present it to President Adams. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 117 

guished man, and much respected by many 
people in the United States. General Hamilton 
was killed. 

3. In 1805, peace was made between the 
United States and Tripoli, a country in Africa, 
lying in the Mediterranean Sea. This people 
had done much injury to the Americans, in 
taking vessels in the Mediterranean Sea, be- 
longing to American merchants, and in abusing 
their crews. 

4. In 1806, Colonel Burr, who had killed 
General Hamilton, attempted to set up a new 
government in the southern part of the United 
States. He intended that New Orleans should 
be his seat of government. But his plan was 
found out, and he was tried. Almost every one 
believed him guilty; but it could not be proved, 
and he was released. 

4. About this time, 1806, France and Eng- 



118 child's history 

land were at war with each other; and both 
did all in their power to injure the United 
States. They were very jealous of the people 
here, and tried to provoke a quarrel with them. 

6. In 1807, June 22nd, a British frigate, 
called the Leopard, attacked the American frig- 
ate Chesapeake, and killed three men. The 
attack was made, because, it was said by the 
British, that on board the Chesapeake were some 
of their men. This attack roused the Ameri- 
cans ; and things now began to look like war. 

7. On the 2nd of July, Mr. Jefferson issued 
a proclamation, forbidding any ships of war 
from England to enter the harbors of the United 
States, till England should make satisfaction for 
the attack upon the Chesapeake. 

8. At this time, Mr. Monroe, who was after- 
wards President of the United States, was 
Minister to England. Letters were written 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 119 

to him, to demand satisfaction of the English 
government. 

9. As difficulties, however, seemed to in- 
crease, Mr. Jefferson directed Congress to meet 
at Washington, Oct. 27th, to determine v^hat 
was best to be done. When Congress met, it 
was deemed prudent to equip one hundred thou- 
sand of the mihtia, to build eighty or ninety 
gun -boats, and to build and repair fortifications. 

10. After a little time, these measures were 
thought insufficient. On the 22nd of Decem- 
ber, therefore, an embargo Vv^as laid on all ves- 
sels in port, by Avhich they were forbidden to 
depart. 

11. But even an embargo was found insuf- 
ficient. This, therefore, was repealed March 
1st, 1809; and, at the same time, a non-inter- 
course law was passed, by which it was ordain- 
ed, that no more trade, either with England or 



120 CHILD'S HISTORY 

France, should be carried on, till difficulties 
were settled. 

12. Such was the state of things on the 4tli 
of March, 1809, when Mr. Jefferson retired 
from office. James Madison was chosen to 
succeed him as President; and George Clinton 
was elected Vice-President. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did Mr. Jefferson become President of the United States? 
How long did he continue in office ? 

2. In 1804, what sad event took place? Who was killed? 

3. In 1806, what peace was made ? Where is Tripoli ? What injury 
had the people of that country done ? 

4. In 1806, what did Col. Burr attempt to set up ? What place was to 
be the capital of his government ? What is said of his plan ? Why was 
he released ? 

6. What is said of France and England in 1806 ? How did they treat 
the United States ? Why did they treat them thus ? 

6. What took place in 1807 ? Why was this attack made ? How did 
the Americans feel about this ? 

7. When did Mr. Jefferson issue a proclamation ? What did the pro- 
clamation forbid ? 

8. Who was at this time minister to England ? What was he directed 
to do? 

9. Whom did Mr. Jefferson call together? Why? Where? What 
did Congress do ? 

10. What next took place ? When was the embargo laid ? What is 
meant by an embargo ? Why was it laid 7 

11. Did the embargo answer the purpose for which it was laidi What 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 121 

became of it ? What was enacted in its place ? What did the non-intor- 
course law order ? 

12. When did Mr. Jefferson retire from office ? Who succeeded him ? 
Who became Vice-President ? 

STORY. 

1. The lesson which you have now learned would furnish 
me with several interesting stories, had 1 time to relate them. 
I might give you some particulars about the duel, between 
Colonel Burr and General Hamilton. This was truly a sad 
affair. Colonel Burr was Vice-President of the United States. 
General Hamilton had been aid to General Washington dur- 
ing the war, and had filled several offices of distinction. 

2. Both were distinguished men. Both might have been 
useful for many years. What a sad example they set ! What 
a crime did they commit! General Hamilton was' killed. 
Every one thought him to be a foolish man. As to Colonel 
Burr, few have either loved or respected him since. Who 
can love or respect a duellist ! 

3. I might tell an interesting story, also, about fhe war 
with Tripoli. I can give, however, only a few particulars. 

4. Tripoli lies, as I have said, on the coast of Africa. The 
people of that country are much like the Algerines, about 
whose cruel piracies almost every one has heard. 

5. For a long time the Tripolitan cruisers, as they were 
called, had ill-treated merchant vessels from America. These 
vessels were often taken, their cargoes were plundered, and 
the crews sold into slavery. 



122 child's history 

6. In 1803, Commodore Preble was sent with a fleet, to 
chastise the people of Tripoli. Soon after he sailed. Captain 
Bainbridge was sent in the -frigate Philadelphia, to assist 
him. On the arrival of the latter, a piratical vessel from 
Tripoli was chased into the harbour of Tripoli. Unfortu- 
nately, the Philadelphia grounded; and Captain Bainbridge 
and his crew were taken and carried to Tripoli, where they 
were loaded with irons, and thrust into a dungeon. 

7. Lieutenant Decatur, afterwards Commodore Decatur, 
was at this time with Commodore Preble. Desirous of dis- 
tinguishing himself, by permission he took a boat called a 
Xebec, and with twenty men, sailed for the Philadelphia, to 
set her on fire. 

8. It was now night. Many Tripolitans had been placed 
on board the Philadelphia, as a guard ; and as the Xebec 
approached, they cried, " Who is there 1" 

9. A man on board the Xebec, who could speak in the 
Janguage of the people of Tripoli, replied — " We've no an- 
chor. Let us make fast to the frigate, or we shall be blown 
away." 

10. You may make fast to the hatvse?',''^ said they, " till 
we can ask leave of the Admiral." The hawser is a kind 
of rope, or cable. This being done, a boat put off from the 
Philadelphia to ask permission of the admiral for the boat 
to be made fast to the frigate. 

11. No sooner had the boat gone, however, than Lieut. 
Decatur and his men leaped on board the Philadelphia. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 123 

The Tripolitans, though taken by surprise, attempted re- 
sistance ; but the bravery of the Americans carried every- 
thing before it. The enemy was routed, in a few moments, 
on every deck. Some were killed and wounded, and a 
great many plunged into the sea, to swim for their lives. 

12. The ship was now in the possession of the Americans, 
and it remained to destroy her at once. For this, every 
preparation had been duly made. Instantly, parties of the 
assailants dispersed themselves through all parts of the 
vessel, and set her on fire in many places. The flames rose 
so rapidly, that the Americans could hardly escape the fire : 
but they exerted themselves, and got clear off", with little or 
no injury. The enemy's batteries, at length fully aroused, 
thundered ineffectually, whilst the little American vessel 
sailed triumphantly out of the port. The frigate burnt to 
the water's edge. A more daring or better executed achieve- 
ment scarcely adorns the naval annals of any country. 
Decatur's reputation at once reached a very high point. 

13. I will only add, that in consequence of the burning ofi 
the Philadelphia, the sufferings of Captain Bain bridge and 
his crew were much increased. But, not long after, the war 
was brought to a close by General Eaton ; and a treaty of 
peace was made, by which all American prisoners were 
released. 

14. My little readers would like, no doubt, also to read 
some particulars about the plan of Colonel Burr, after he 
had killed General Hamilton, to form a new government. 



124 CHILD S HISTORY 

I wish I had room for the story. It was a wicked plot which 
he contrived : it was what is called treason. But it could 
not be proved, and he was released. 

15. I have time to add only a few lines about Mr. Jeffer- 
son. Different opinions exist about him as a President. But 
all unite in praising him for one thing — the Declaration of 
Independence. This he wrote. It was a bold, manly, and 
noble production. It will add honour to his name, while 
America lasts. 

16. The Declaration was written in 1776. It was read 
and adopted July 4th, of that year. And the man who urged 
its adoption, who pressed it forward, more than any other, 
was John Adams. \ 

17. Now mark a wonderful circumstance. Just fifty years 
from that year — from that day — these two men died — died 
within two or three hours of each other — died while the 
people in all parts of the United States were celebrating 
independence. 

18. This was a wonderful coincidence. It w^as thought so 
here. It was thought so in England. And in that country, 
some said it was almost too wonderful to be true. But it 
was true, wonderful as it did appear. 

19. Fifty-six men signed the Declaration of Independence. 
John Hancock, of Massachusetts, being President of the 
Congress, signed his name first. The others then followed. 
Every man, who put his name to that instrument, exposed 
himself to be hung, should the British take them. But no 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 125 

one hesitated. They wrote in a bold style. Only one hand 
trembled — Stephen Hopkins's — but he had the palsy, and 
could not write otherwise. They all used the same pen. 
That pen is preserved in the Cabinet of the Massachusetts 
Historical Society. 

20. This noble band of men are now all gone. The last 
one— Charles Carroll of Carrollton, Maryland, died only a 
few years since. Most of them lived to be aged men. The 
average of their lives was about 65 years. Four of them 
lived 90 years, and upwards. Fourteen exceeded 80. And 
twenty-three reached 70 years. 

21. They are now all dead. Dead ! Yes, they are dead, 
as to the body. " But," as Mr. Webster once eloquently 
said of them, " to their country they yet live, and will live 
forever." I love to think of them ; I love to read the story 
of their lives. I love to dwell upon their patriotism — their 
«;elf-denial — their bold and manly virtues and deeds. Others, 
in like manner, love to cherish their memory. As you, my 
children, advance to manhood, you will do likewise, and so 
will others, I hope, to the end of time. 



126 



child's history 




A British Midshipman receiving a severe wound, p. 133. 



LESSON XXI. 

JAMES MADISON, PRESIDENT. — WAR WITH ENGLAND. 

1. Mr. Madison became President on the 
4th of March, 1809, and continued in office 
eight years. 

2. The difficulties between the United States 
and England, which began while Mr. Jefferson 
was President, still continued, and became still 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 127 

more serious. Some attemps were made to 
settle them, but without effect. 

3. In May, 1811, these difficulties were much 
increased by an attack of a British sloop-of-war, 
called the Little Belt, upon the American frigate 
Pi^esident, This was an unprovoked attack, 
and filled the Americans with just indignation. 

4. In this state of things, Mr. Madison assem- 
bled Congress. They met in November ; and 
on the 4th of June following, (1812), declared 
war against England. This is called ^'Madison's 
war^^^ because it was declared while he was 
President. 

5. This declaration of war gave offence to 
many. They thought it unnecessary. They 
thought the difficulties might have been settled, 
without resorting to arms. When my pupils 
are older, they can form an opinion for them- 
selves. 



128 child's history. 

6. It would make too large a volume to tell 
all about this war. On the land, the American 
army did not appear to much advantage. They 
attempted to take Canada, but failed to effect 
their object. On the imter, the navy did much 
execution, and acquired signal honor. 

7. The first naval battle was between the 
United States frigate Constitution, and the Bri 
tish frigate Guerriere, This was a dreadful en- 
gagement. The vessels were nearly equal, as 
to men and guns. Yet the British frigate was 
entirely dismasted, and otherwise so much injur- 
ed, that she was set on fire by her conquerors, 
and consumed. 

8. A second naval victory soon followed. 
This was the capture of the Macedonian, by the 
American fi-igate United States, The brave 
Commodore Decatur commanded the American 
frigate. In the action, the carpenter of the Mace- 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 129 

donian was killed. He had three litde children, 
who were left to the care of their mother, who 
was a worthless woman. The American tars, 
on learning this fact, gave the children eight 
hmidred dollars from their wages. This was 
noble ! 

9. Next came the capture of the Java by the 
Constitution^ and that of the Peacock by the 
Hornet, In this latter engagement, the Pea- 
cock struck in fifteen minutes. I am sorry to 
add, that so many balls had passed through 
her hull, that she sunk before all her men could 
be taken off. 

10. You have heard, I presume, of the battle 
on Lake Erie, This was between two fleets. 
Commodore Perry commanded the American 
fleet, and after a desperate battle took the 
whole British fleet. He then sat down, and 
announced the victory in these words : " We 



130 child's history 

have met the enemy, and they are ours.^^ This 
battle was fought Sept. 10, 1813. 

11. The next year, 1814, August 23, six 
thousand British troops came up the Chesa- 
peake, and took the city of Washington, and 
burnt the capitol and the President's house. 
It was no credit to the Americans to suffer such 
an outrage, and was a disgrace to the British to 
be guilty of it. 

12. On the 11th of September, was fought 
a celebrated naval battle on Lake Champlain, 
between an American and British fleet. The 
British fleet consisted of seventeen vessels; 
that of the Americans of fourteen. The former 
had the advantage over the latter, both as to 
guns and men; yet the victory was so com- 
plete, that nearly the whole fleet fell into the 
hands of Commodore M'Donnough, the Ame- 
rican Commander, 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 131 

13. On the 24th of December, 1814, a treaty 
of peace was signed between the United States 
and England, which put an end to the war. 

14. This treaty was signed at Ghent, in the 
Netherlands, at which place men from the 
United States and England met to settle all 
ditficulties. Before the news arrived that 
peace had been agreed upon, the famous ''hat- 
tie of JYew Orleans'^ took place. It was fought 
on the 8th of January, 1815. Gen. Jackson 
commanded the Americans, and obtained a 
splendid victory. In this battle, the British 
general, Packenham, was killed. 

15. In 1817, Mr. Madison retired from office, 
and James Munroe was chosen President. 
Daniel D. Tomkins was chosen Vice-President. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. WTien did Mr. Madison become President? How long was he in 
office? 

2. What is said of the difficulties which commenced while Mr. Jefferson 
was President ? What of the attempts to settle them ? 



132 child's history 

3. When were these difficulties increased ? By what circumstance 7 
What effect had this attack upon the American people ? 

4. What did Mr. Madison do ? Where did Congress meet ? When 
was war declared ? What is this war called ? Why ? 

5. What was thought of this war by many ? Why? 

6. In this war, how did the land forces appear ? What did they attempt ? 
Did the enterprise succeed ? What is said of the naval force ? 

7. Between what vessels was the first engagement ? Was it severe 1 
Were the vessels nearly equal ? Which gained the victory ? 

8. Between what vessels was the second engagement ? Who com- 
manded the American frigate ? What story is told of the carpenter of 
the Macedonian ? 

9. What engagement next follow^ed ? What next ? How soon did the 
Peacock strike .' What is said of a part of her crew ? 

10. What engagement took place on Lake Erie ? Who commanded 
the American fleet ? Who conquered ? What language did Commodore 
Perry use, when he announced the victory ? When was this battle fought? 

11. When did the British take Washington ? What did they burn? 
What is said of this attack ? 

12. When did the engagement take place on Lake Champlain ? Be- 
tween what ? How many vessels had the British ? How many the Ame- 
ricans ? Which had the advantage ? Which conquered ? 

13. When was a treaty of peace signed ? 

14. Where was this treaty signed? Before the news arrived, what 
battle took place ? Where ? Who commanded the Americans ? Who 
obtained the victory ? What British General was killed ? 

15. When did Mr. Madison leave the Presidential chair ? Who suc- 
ceeded him ? Who was chosen Vice-President ? 



STORY. 

1 1 might fill sheets with stories relating to the war, 

which I doubt not would greatly interest my readers. I 

could tell them of wonderful adventures — of hair-breadth 

escapes — of battles — of victories — of defeats. But I 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 133 

have room for but one story, and only a short one. The 
one I shall relate is affecting. 

2. In September, 1814, a British squadron appeared off 
Stonington, commanded by Sir Thomas Hardy. This is a 
small village, in the eastern part of Connecticut. Soon 
after the appearance of the squadron, a British boat vi'as 
seen coming into the harbor. What could this mean ? 

3. In a few minutes a man landed from the boat, who 
bid the people remove the women and children, if they 
pleased, to a place of safety, for the town was soon to be 
laid in ashes. 

4. Why such a cruel and unprovoked attack was made, 
I cannot say. What the people of Stonington had done 
to merit this, probably no one can tell. But an attack 
was made, and a dreadful one it was. 

5. But the people were brave ; and bravely did they de^ 
fend themselves. In the course of the attack, several 
barges filled with British soldiers, attempted to land. 
Some of these barges were sunk. One drifted on shore, 
and in it was found a wounded midshipman. 

6. It was a desperate wound which he had received* 
and it would not have been singular, had he been neglect- 
ed. But no — although an enemy, he was kindly taken 



134 child's history 

care of. He was young — handsome — brave — generous 
— a noble young man, though he was an enemy. Every 
one offered assistance — the old and the young seemed 
interested in him, and the physicians tried their utmost 
skill. 

7. But it was all in vain. Death came, and he died. 
With kindness was he buried, and with the honors of war ; 
and many a tear was shed over one, who had thus fallen in 
a land of strangers. 

8. Months rolled on. The war ended, and the events 
of the war were beginning to pass away ; when one day, 
an elderly gentleman drove up to the village inn, and 
alighted. 

9. He was evidently a foreigner, and a venerable man. 
" Sir," said he to the landlord, " during the late war this 
village, I think, suffered an attack." 

10. " It did," replied the landlord. *' Was there a Brit- 
ish office killed at that time?" inquired the stranger. 
"There was one wounded, who afterwards died among 
us," said the landlord. " He was a youth in whom every,] 
one was interested, and could attention have saved him, 
he would not have died." 

11. The old man's eyes were lifled to Heaven! "Will 
you show me where he lies?" inquired the stranger. The 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 135 

landlord now accompanied him to the spot, where he de- 
sired to be left alone. 

12. Late at night, he returned to the inn, where he 
lodged. Early the following morning, he rose, and again 
repaired to the spot, where he spent several hours. 

13. After a late breakfast, he called for his horse, and 
was about departing. *' Sir," asked the landlord, " may 
I venture to inquire whether the young midshipman was a 
relative of yours?" 

14. " Yes, sir, he was a relative," replied the sU'anger. 
" He ^as a son — an only son — dearer to an old man's 
heart, than all on earth besides. I have made this voyage 
with no other object, than to find the spot where he was 
laid. I have found it — have seen it. I return contented. 
Thanks to God that he fell among a people, who knew how 
to be generous even in war." 

15. I doubt not my readers will feel sad, when they 
think of the sorrows, which war often causes : but how 
delightful to see among enemies such instances of noble 
generosity and kindness, as that which we have here 
related ! 



136 



child's history 




General Washington crossing the Delaware, p. 142. 



LESSON XXII. 
JAMES MONROE, PRESIDENT. 

1. On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. Monroe 
was sworn into office, and continued in office 
for eight years. 

2. The war having now ended, the condition 
of the country began to be more prosperous. 
Commerce revived in a measure ; and some 



OF THE UNITED STATES 137 

manufacturing establishments were put in oper- 
ation. 

3. During the summer and autumn of this 
yeat", President Monroe made a tour through 
most of the states. The object of this tour 
was to gain information as to the state of the 
country, so that he might better administer the 
government. He was treated with great re- 
spect and attention in his tour. 

4. During the session of Congress in 1817- 
18, a bill of much importance to the indigent 
officers and soldiers of the revolutionary army, 
was passed. This provided to give twenty 
dollars per month to the former, and eight to 
the latter, during life. This was truly honor- 
able to the United States; but no more tnan 
just, in view of the toils and privations of those 
who had fought for American liberty. 

5. In 1818, the United States became in- 
volved in another war This was with the 



138 

Seminole Indians, These Indians lived partly 
in the United States, and partly in Florida. 
The Indians were the aggressor^. They com- 
mitted several mm-ders upon v^hite people ; ^nd 
it became necessary to check them. 

6. General Jackson w^as appointed to super- 
intend the w^ar. In about a year, the Indians 
were subdued. But in conducting the war, 
General Jackson was thought by many to have 
been unnecessarily severe. You can judge for 
yourselves when you are older. 

7. The remainder of Mr. Monroe's adminis- 
tration was not marked by any event of impor- 
tance. The country continued to flourish. As 
a President, he was beloved and respected. 

8. In 1825, he retired from office, with the 
good wishes of his country, and was succeeded 
by John Quincy Adams. John C. Calhoun 
was chosen Vice-President. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 130 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did Mr. Monroe become President? How long did he con 
linue in office ? 

2. What is said of the condition of the country after the war ? What of 
commerce ? What of manufacturing establishments ? 

3. What tour did Mr. Monroe make in 1817? What was the object of 
this tour ? How weis he treated ? 

4. What bill passed Congress in 1817-18 ? What did it provide ? What 
is said of this measure ? 

5. What war took place in 1818 ? Where did these Indians live ? Who 
were the aggressors ? What did they do ? 

6. Who superintended the war ^ How long did it last ? What did 
some think of General Jackson's conduct in this war ? 

7. What is said of the remainder of IMr. Monroe's administration ? 

8. When did he retire from office ? Wlio succeeded him as President ? 
Who received the appointment of Vice-President ? 



STORY 

1. Soon after Mr. Monroe became President, he made 
the tour, as I told you, of most of the states. This was 
in 1817. Most of my pupils were either not then born, 
or were too young to know what took place, as he passed 
through the country. 

2. It was a delightful spectacle, to see the Piesident 
of so large a country as the United States, travel as Mr. 
Monroe did. In other countries, kings sometimes make 
a survey of their dominions. But they travel in great 
state — in a splendid coach — with horses loaded with gold 
or silver plate — with numerous servants richly dressed — 



140 

and an armed band of soldiers to guard them. And then, 
there is so much pride and pomp, as if they were a higher 
order of beings — made only to be served, and their sub- 
jects only to submit. No common man may speak to 
them : he may think himself honored to be allowed to 
hole at them. 

3. But it was otherwise, during the tour of Mr. Mon- 
roe. He travelled in a respectable style. This was pro- 
per. But his equipage was plain. He was a plain man, 
and kind and civil did he appear towards all who were 
pleased to call upon him. Men may be great, and yet free 
from odious pride. They may be high in office, and feel 
no disposition to trample others in the dust. 

4. The modest appearance of Mr. Monroe justly pleased 
the people. They had elevated him to the high station 
which he occupied, and he was not disposed to despise 
them. Perceiving this, they paid him double honor. 
Citizens and soldiers — the old and the young — went forth 
to rpeet him as he approached ; bells were rung — cannon 
were fired — processions were formed — entertainments 
were made. Even those who had voted for another man 
to be President, bid him welcome, and aided to make his 
journey pleasant. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 141 

5. What a peculiar, what a happy country, my children, 
is ours I What simplicity of manners ! what liberty is 
enjoyed ! what equality is preserved ! Did you live in 
England, you could indulge no hope of being King of that 
country ; nor could you be Emperor of Russia, were you 
there. But in the United States, the most ragged little boy 
that runs in the street may rise. Office is open to all who 
behave well. If you are a hoy, you may be the President 
of the United States in some future time ; if a girl, you 
may be a President's wife. 

6. In travelling from Washington to New York, Mr. 
Monroe passed through Trenton. This town lies in New- 
Jersey on the east bank of the Delaware, thirty miles north- 
east from Philadelphia. This was an interesting spot to 
the President. Here was fought, December 26, 1776, the 
celebrated battle of Trenton. At that time, he was a lieu- 
tenant in the American army. There he fought, and was 
severely wounded. 

7. Before this battle, the prospect of the Americans was 
quite gloomy. The American army had been compelled 
to retreat into Delaware. But, at length, Washington, 
roused by the sad prospect before him, said something was 
to be done, or the country would be ruined. A body of 



142 

British, it was told, were at Trenton. Washington collect- 
ed his troops on the banks of the Delaware, and determin- 
ed to pass that river, and, if possible, to take them by 
surprise. 

8. A writer says, " It was a dark, gloomy, and horrible 
night." A storm was raging. The hail rattled from 
above. The ice heaved, rolled, and tumbled, as the boats 
at inidniglit passed over the rapid current of the Delaware. 
But a propitious Providence smiled upon the attempt. The 
passage was made in safety. The British Avere taken by 
surprise ; their commander was killed, and their army cap- 
tured. This was an important victory for the Americans. 
It raised their desponding hopes ; it roused them to higher 
action. 

9. During the above contest, Mr. Monroe was wounded 
by a bullet, which passed through his shoulder. It proved 
not to be mortal, but was very severe ; and long did he 
linger, and much did he suffer, before he recovered. Little 
did he then think, that forty years from that time he should 
visit the same spot, welcomed by thousands of freemen, 
and himself the President of a peacefuL wide-spread, and 
noble republic ' 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



143 





w 


^pp^^KS^^^^^**^^. Ili.!^] 



The cheated Indian, p. 149. 

LESSON XXIII. 

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, PRESIDENT. 

1. On the 4th of March, 1825, Mr, Adams 
took the usual oath to support the constitution, 
and became President of the United States. He 
held the office for four years. 

2. At the time a new President was to be 
chosen, the people were much divided as to can- 
didates. Some were for Mr. Adams i some for 



144 child's history 

General Jackson ; others for INIr. Crawford ; and 
others still, for Mr. Clay. No choice being made 
by the people, it devolved on the House of Re- 
presentatives in Congress to make the election. 

3. It was an occasion of deep interest, when 
they met to decide. Each of the several parties 
in the United States were anxious to have their 
candidate succeed. At length, the votes were 
given in and counted. Mr. Adams had 87 ; 
General Jackson 71 ; and Mr. Crawford 54. 
Mr. Adams having more than either of the 
others, was solemnly declared to be chosen. 

4. As a President, Mr. Adams was not aS| 
popular as some, who had preceded him. Yetj 
the country continued to flourish, while he was 
In office. Peace with other nations prevailed. 
The great debt contracted for the war was. 
diminished. Numerous canals, rail-roads, and] 
other public improvements, were begun. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 145 

5. During the years 1824 and 1825, the peo- 
ple of the United States were gratified with a 
visit fi-om their old friend, General La Fayette. 
At his own expense, he had come during the 
war of the Revolution to aid them. He spent 
many thousands of dollars for us, and fought 
nobly for American Independence. During his 
visit, he w^as hailed as the friend and benefactor 
of America. It being understood that he was 
poor. Congress voted him two hundred thou- 
sand dollars, and a large tract of land. This was 
honorable to the nation ; yet it was due, for 
what he had done and expended, during the 
war. On the 7th of September, 1825, he sailed 
again for France. Congress despatched a new 
and beautiful frigate, called the Brandywine, to 
convey him home. 

6. The year 1825, was distinguished for the 
completion of the great Erie canal, in the state 

10 



146 child's history 

of New York. This canal is three hundred and 
sixty miles in length. It connects Lake Erie 
with Hudson river, at Albany. It was begun 
July 4th, 1817. The first boat fi-om Lake Erie, 
arrived at New York, October 4th, 1825. The 
whole expense of the canal was more than nine 
million of dollars. 

7. On the 4th of July, 1826, occurred the 
deaths of the elder President Adams (the father 
of John Quincy Adams), and President Jeffer- 
son. This was just fifty years from the day 
that Independence was declared. Both these 
great men assisted, in 1776, in framing the De- 
claration. It was wonderful that they should 
live fifty years from that date ; but more won- 
derful, that both should die on the same day. 

8. In 1829, there was a new election of Pres- 
ident. The people were again much divided. 
The two candidates were Mr. Adams and Gen. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 147 

Jackson. Each had powerful friends. Much 
was said and written for and against them, by 
their respective parties. But, when the time 
arrived for the electors — that is, the persons ap- 
pointed by the people to elect a President — to 
give their votes, it was found that General Jack- 
son had 178 votes, and Mr. Adams, but 83. 

9. General Jackson being elected, was sworn 
into office on the 4th of March, 1829. Of the 
wisdom of his administration, different opinions 
are entertained in the United States. Every 
President has had his friends and opposers. 
Some years hence, the historian will be better 
able to decide as to the merits of his administra- 
^ tion, than now. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did Mr. Adams enter upon the office of President ? How long 
did he continue in office ? 

2. Were the people united in choosing Mr. Adams ? Who besides him 
were candidates ? Did the people make any choice 2 Who decided tho 
question ? 



148 child's history 

3. What IS said of the occasion when the House of Representatives met 
to decide ? How many votes had Mr. Adams 1 How many had General 
Jackson ? How many had Mr. Crawford ? Who was therefore declared 
to be chosen ? 

4. Was Mr. Adams popular as a President ? What is said of the country 
during his administration ? What of peace with other nations ? What of 
the national debt ? What of canals and rail-roads ? 

6. When did General La Fayette visit the United States ? What js said 
of him during the war of the revolution ? How was he received during his 
visit ? What did Congress do for him ? What is said of this gift ? When 
did he return home ? In what way ? 

6. For what was the year 1825 distinguished ? How long is the Erie 
Canal ? What does it connect ? Wlien was it begun ? When did the 
first boat from Lake Erie reach New-York ? What was the expense of 
this canal ? 

7. What remarkable event took place July 4th; 1826 ? How long was 
this from the year Lidependence was declared ? 

8. In what year did a new election for President take place ? Who 
were the candidates ? What is meant by electors ? Whom did the elect- 
ors choose ? How many votes had General Jackson ? How many had 
Mr. Adams ? 

9. When was Gen. Jackson sworn into office ? What is said of the 
wisdom of his administration ? 



STORY. 

1. I have told you of the visit vrhich La Fayette made 
to the people of the United States in 1825 and 1826. It 
would be pleasant to relate the wonderful adventures of 
his life. But I have not room for so long a story. I 
must content myself with telling an affecting incident, 
which took place, while La Fayette was passing through 
one of the western states. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 149 

2. La Fayette and his company had stopped for the 
night in a small village, in which lived a while man, who 
was a trader. Levasseur, the secretary of La Fayette, 
entered the shop of the trader to purchase some articles 
While standing near the counter, an Indian entered. 

3. "Sir," said the Indian, "some whiskey!" — at the 
same time giving the trader a ninepence. The trader, 
taking the money, told the Indian to wait till he could help 
liim. After some time, the Indian asked for his whiskey 
"You must pay for it, then, " said the trader. "I have 
given you ninepence already," said the Indian. 

4. " You scoundrel," said the trader, violently enraged, 
"get out of my shop." The Indian would- have replied; 
but the trader sprung over the counter, darted upon the 
Indian, and brutally pushed him out of doors. 

5. Levasseur was filled with indignation, but he had no 
time to interpose ; indeed, as he was a stranger, prudence 
forbade him. He followed the Indian, however, out o^ 
the door. At a short distance from the shop, he found 
him standing like a marble statue. At length, crossing 
his arms upon his breast, the Indian directed his course 
towards a creek, which at no great distance crossed the 
road. 

G. Levasseur followed. On the opposite side, the Indian 



150 CHILD S HISTORY 

paused — turned — clenched his hands — raised them — and 
at the same time directed his eyes towards Heaven, and 
seemed to say, " Have the white people any God ? will his 
vengeance sleep ? will he never take pity on the pooi 
Indians ? " 

7. Upon this, he again directed his course towards the 
forest, in the shades of which, and the obscurity of night, 
he was soon lost. 

8. " Ah ! " said Levasseur, " poor Indians ! you are 
tempted by white men to purchase poison, and when you 
are willing to purchase it, you are cheated, robbed, beaten, 
and turned out of doors. White men call you savages ; 
but are they not more savage than you? " 

9. My pupils will allow me to give them a word of advice. 
You will soon become men. You will spread through the 
land. You may meet with the " red men " of the forest. 
Treat them kindly, for they have souls as well as you. 
They were once owners of the land, in which you dwell. 
They are dwindling away. Their bravest warriors are no 
more. Their boldest hunters are dead. The miserable 
remnants of their tribes should be fostered — taught tie 
arts of civilized life — told of the Bible — of the Son of 
God — of heaven, and how they may secure it. This may 
be done ; but it must be done soon, or the only season will 
have for ever passed away. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



151 




Battle of New Orleans. 

LESSON XXIV. 
ANDREW JACKSON, PRESIDENT. 

1. General Jackson, having been elected 
President of the United States, entered upon the 
duties of that office, on the 4th of March, 1829. 
At the time of his election, he resided in Ten- 
nessee. John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, 
was elected Vice-President. 



152 child's history 

2. The country, at this time, was very pros- 
perous. We were at peace with all nations. The 
national debt was yearly diminishing. There I 
were five millions of money in the treasury. All 
branches of business were flourishing. 

3. General Jackson was a very popular Pre- 
sident with the party which elected him. No 
President, excepting General Washington, was 
more admired and praised. But his opposers 
greatly censured him for several things. In the 
first place, while former Presidents had removed 
only a few from office, he removed hundreds. 
He also took measures to break down the United 
States Bank, which a great many thought an 
excellent institution. He also recommended the 
removal of the Indian tribes from their lands 
and homes to the west of the Mississippi. This 
was deemed by many a cruel and unrighteous 
measure. 

4. In 1833, General Jackson was elected to 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 153 

the Presidency for a second four years. He had 
now even more votes than at his first election. 
A large majority of the people seemed therefore 
to approve of his measures. Martin Van Buren 
was chosen Vice-President. 

5. During the summer of 1833, General Jack- 
son visited several places in New England He 
was accompanied by the Vice-President, and 
many other distinguished men. He was received 
with much honour, as the President of such a 
country as the United States should ever be. The 
processions and exhibitions made for him were 
often grand spectacles. 

6. On the 21st of June, 1833, General Jack- 
son sent a message to Congress, announcing the 
death of that great and good friend of the United 
States, General La Fayette. He died at La 
Grange, in France. He was an old man and 
full of honours. Every child should respect his 
memory. 



154 child's history 

7. When the time came to elect a new Presi- 
dent, for March 4th, 1837, Martin Van Buren 
was chosen to succeed General Jackson, and 
Richard M. Johnson was chosen Vice-President, 
in the place of Mr. Calhoun. 

8. When General Jackson left the Presidential 
chair, the country was by no means as flourish- 
ing as when he took it. I cannot tell you all the 
reasons why a sad change had come over it. 
General Jackson and his friends imputed it 
pretty much to speculation and over-trading — 
but others laid a good share of it to the measures 
which the President had adopted in reference to 
the United States Bank, and the public money. 
This he removed from that Bank, and placed it 
in other Banks, by which it was lent ; some of it 
was lost, and large sums fell into the hands of 
speculators. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did General Jackson enter on his duties, as President? 
Where did he reside, when elected ? Who was chosen Vice-President ? 



OF THR UNITED STATES. 155 

2. What is said of the state of the country at this time ? What of 
peace ? What of the national debt ? What sum of money was in the 
treasury ? What is said of all branches of business ? 

3. What is said of General Jackson as President? How did he com- 
pare with Washington ? Who censured him ? What was the first ground 
of censure ? What did he attempt in reference to the United States 
Bank ? What did he recommend about the Indians 1 What did many 
think about this measure ? 

4. When was General Jackson re-elected ? How many votes had he ? 
What may be inferred from this ? Who was elected Vice-President ? 

5. What tour did General Jackson make, in the summer of 1833 ? 
Who accompanied him ? How was he received ? What is said of the 
processions and exhibitions made for him ? 

6. What message did General Jackson send to Congress, June 21, 
1833 ? Where did La Fayette die ? What is said of him ? 

7. Who was elected to succeed General Jackson ? Who succeeded 
Mr. Calhoun ? 

8. What is said of the country, when General Jackson retired from 
ofRce ? To what did he and his friends impute this ? To what did others 
impute the less flourishing state of the country ? What did General 
Jackson do with the public money ? What became of large sums of it ? 



STORY. 

1. I have told you how General Jackson was President of 
the United States, for eight years ; perhaps you will like to 
know something about his earlier history. 

2. His birth-place was Waxsaw, a settlement in South 
Carolina ; and the time of his birth, March 15th, 1767. His 
parents were from Ireland. They came to America in 1705. 
At this time they had two sons, Hugh, and Robert. 

3. Shortly after Andrew was born, his father died — 
leaving to his wife the care of the three boys. She was a 



166 child's history 

kind and faithful mother. As Andrew grew up she wished 
him to become a minister ; and, with this view, she sent him 
to an academy in Waxsaw to be educated. 

4. But, when the Revolution came on, Andrew could not 
content himself with study. He preferred becoming a soldier. 
So, leaving the academy, he entered the American army 
with his brother, Robert. His eldest brother, Hugh, had be- 
fore this time enlisted, but was dead. 

5. The two brothers had not been long in the army before 
they were taken prisoners, with several other American sol- 
diers, in a skirmish with a party of the British. As usual, 
they were deprived of their arms, and put under guard. 

^; 6. One day, a British officer wanted his boots cleaned ; so 
he says to Andrew — " Here, take my boots, and clean them." 
Andrew looked at him — I was going to say through him — 
but he looked at him, with great indignation, and said — " No, 
I '11 never clean your boots, nor the boots of any other British 
officer." " Clean my boots" — repeated the officer, in a stern 
tone. *' That I '11 never do — no, not I," said the courageous 
young soldier." " You won't, you rebel !" exclaimed the 
haughty red-coat — " Well, take that for your insolence !"— 
at the same time bringing down his sword upon the head of 
Andrew—" Take that." 

7. I said upon his head — it came within a few inches of 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 157 

his head ; and which, if it had hit, it would have split — but 
it was stopped by the up-Hfted arm of the young soldier, 
which received the blow, and an ugly wound it caused. It 
so happened that his brother Robert received a similar order 
at the same time ; and, giving a similar answer, he received 
a still more grievous wound. The British officers had no 
right to treat American prisoners thus meanly ; but they now 
went further, and cast the two brothers into prison. 

8. Here they lay for some time, both suffering greatly 
from their wounds. Robert's head became inflamed, and 
shortly after his release, he died. This was a sore trial to 
Andrew ; but a still heavier affliction awaited him. His mo- 
ther had over-exerted herself in providing comforts for her 
sons, while they were prisoners — and soon after Robert's 
death, she died also. 

9. Andrew was now nearly alone in the world. Borne 
down by his trials, wounds, and sufferings, he fell sick, and 
was confined for some time to his bed. Nor had he fully 
recovered, when he was seized with the small-pox, which 
brought him still lower ; and, for a time, his recovery was 
most improbable. 

10. But, at length, his health was restored. He now left 
the army ,* and preferring the law to the ministry, he directed 



158 child's history 

his studies to the former profession. In 1786, when only 19 
years of age, he received a license to practise. 

11. In 1788, he removed to Tennessee, which henceforth 
became his place of residence. Some years after, he went 
to Congress from that State, both as a Representative and a 
Senator. 

12. During the last war with England, called ^' Madison's 
war," he was appointed a Major-General, and distinguished 
himself on various occasions, as an officer of great courage 
and enterprise. But I have time only to tell about the great 
battle of New Orleans. 

13. This battle was fought on the 8th of January, 1815. 
The Americans obtained a signal victory ; and perhaps good 
has grown out of that battle, because the people of England 
have learned to respect the Americans more, and will be less 
likely to wish for another war. But it was a sad event — such 
a multitude of men were killed, and so much suffering caused. 
Peace had been agreed upon on the 24th of December, but 
neither General Jackson, nor the British General at New 
Orleans, knew of it. 

14. But the British might take the whole blame to them- 
selves. They led in the attack. They had made great pre- 
parations for it, and were the more determined, as they had, 
in several previous assaults, been repulsed. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 169 

15. The time set for a final attack, was on the 8th of 
January. The British General, Sir Edward Packenham, de- 
termined to lead in person. As the day dawned, rockets 
were observed ascending from the British camp, as a signal 
that all were ready. 

16. This news spread through the American lines. But 
it occasioned no alarm, as General Jackson had made every 
possible preparation for defence. Breast-works had been 
raised — cannon had been planted — soldiers had been station- 
ed — all was ready to give the enemy a warm reception. 

17. A dense fog, for a time, concealed the British, who 
marched in silence towards the city. They had nearly 
reached the American lines, when the fog rose, and there, 
before the Americans, were a vast multitude of veteran sol- 
diers, led on by a brave and determined chief. They were 
60 or 70 deep — all exulting in the expectation of an easy 
and speedy victory. 

18. The Americans waited for the British a few mmutes 
longer, as did the soldiers at the battle of Bunker Hill — 'till 
they could see the whites of their eyes. But now the critical 
time had come. And with one voice, they gave three cheers, 
and the next moment they poured in upon the enemy a most 
galling and destructive fire. The British fell by hundreds. 
The brave Sir Edward himself fell ,* and by his side the two 



160 child's history 

distinguished Generals, Keene and Gibbs, were mortally- 
wounded. All was rout and confusion in the British army. 

19. But we will not longer dwell upon the painful scene. 
Suffice it to say — the Americans were entirely successful. 
But few on their side were killed — while the British lost 
thousands. Such as were not taken prisoners fled, and soon 
after embarked for their native isle. 

20. General Jackson was greatly honoured for the enter- 
prise, skill and bravery, which he displayed previous to and 
during the attack upon New Orleans. His success on that 
occasion gained for him the title of the " Hero of New Or- 
leans," and with it a popularity which afterwards resulted in 
his elevation to the Presidential chair. 

21. The battle of New Orleans was the last of the battles 
during the " Madison war" — the last which has been fought 
on the American soil. May it be the last in all time to 
come. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



161 




Capitol at Washington. 

LESSON XXV. 
MARTIN VAN BUREN, PRESIDENT. 

1. Mr. Van Buren, I told you, was elected to 
succeed General Jackson, as President. He was 
inaugurated, March 4th, 1837. 

2. The condition of the country, as stated in 
Lesson XXIV, was far from being flourishing, 
when General Jackson left the Presidency. He 
thought and said that he " left the people pros- 

11 



162 child's history 

perous and happy." But they were neither pros- 
perous nor happy, because business languished. 
Specie was scarce, and bank-bills had lost their 
reputation. Merchants knew not whom to trust. 
The whole country was filled with gloom and 
apprehension. 

3. Nor did matters improve after Mr. Van 
Buren's inauguration, but grew worse. The 
banks generally soon suspended paying specie 
for their bills. This always indicates a sad state 
of things. Mr. Van Buren called an extra session 
of Congress. But Congress did little for the re- 
lief of the country. 

4. However, in 1838, matters began to wear 
a brighter aspect. The banks again paid specie. 
Public confidence was somewhat restored. Busi- 
ness began to revive. It was some years, how- 
ever, before the country flourished, as it had 
done. 

5. On the 4th of December, 1 839, a celebrated 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 16 



c* 



whig national convention was held at Harris- 
burg, in Pennsylvania, to nominate candidates 
for President and Vice-President. They nomi- 
nated General Harrison of Ohio, and John Tyler 
of Virginia. The other party afterwards nomi- 
nated Mr. Van Buren and Richard M. Johnson 
to the same offices. 

6. The campaign now opened. Never was 
there such political zeal manifested in the coun- 
try. Everybody felt deeply interested. Men as- 
sembled in masses from one thousand to twenty 
thousand in number, to hear speeches, pass reso- 
lutions, and inspire one another with enthusiasm. 

7. At length, the time for the election arrived. 
Everybody voted who might vote. Each party 
was confident of success. But the whigs pre- 
vailed, and by and by it was officially announced 
that General Harrison was elected. He had a, 
greater majority than any President since the 
days of Washington. 



164 



QUESTIONS. 

1. Who succeeded General Jackson as President? When was he 
inaugurated ? 

2. What was the condition of the country when General Jackson re. 
tired ? What did he think and say ? Was he right ? Why ? What is 
said of specie ? What of bank-bills ? What of merchants ? What of 
the whole country ? 

3. Did matters improve after Mr. Van Buren became President? What 
did the banks do ? What does such suspension indicate ? What did Mr. 
Van Buren do ? What did Congress do ? 

4. What took place in 183S ? What did the banks do? What is said 
of public confidence ? What of business ? Did the country soon regain 
its former flourishing condition ? 

5. What convention was held in 1839 ? Where ? For what purpose ? 
Whom did they nominate ? Whom did the opposite party nominate ? 

6. Who felt deeply interested ? In what numbers did men assemble ? 
For what purpose ? 

7. Which party prevailed ? Who was elected '/ By what majority ? 

STORY. 

1. I shall here entertain you with a brief account of the 
election and inauguration of a President of the United States. 
Every child should know something about these important 
matters. 

2. A President of the United States is chosen once in four 
years. He must be at least 35 years of age. Hereafter, the 
freemen are to meet in their several towns, in each state, on 
a certain day, in November of every fourth year, and choose 
electors. Each state is entitled to as many electors as it has 
senators and representatives in Congress. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 165 

3. Some time in Decemhery these electors meet at the 
capital of their respective states, and vote for a President and 
Vice-President. Two or three lists of votes are made out — 
one of which is sent to Washington by a special messenger^ 
directed to the President of the Senate. 

4. Some time in February, the ceremony of counting the 
votes takes place. It is quite imposing. It is briefly as fol- 
lows. At 12 o'clock the Senate, with their President, proceed 
to the Hall of Representatives. A man called a Sergeant-at- 
Arms carries a box, containing the packages of votes. 

5. As they enter the Hall, the Representatives rise and 
stand, till the President and Senators have taken their places. 
All are now seated. Tellers, or persons to count the votes, 
have already been appointed. The President rises and an- 
nounces the object of the meeting. 

6. The box lies before him. He opens it — takes a pack- 
age — that of Maine first — opens it, and hands it to the tellers. 
So he goes through the whole. At length they are opened 
and counted. The tellers lay the result before the President 
of the Senate. He rises, and announces the state of the vote. 
If a choice has been made, he declares that such candidates 
are elected President and Vice-President, for four years, from 
the fourth day of March following. 



166 child's history 

7. This done, the houses separate, and committees are ap- 
pointed to inform the candidates of their election. 

8. On the following 4th of March, the inauguration of the 
f^President takes place. By this is meant the ceremony of in- 
troducing him into office. This is a more brilliant affair than 
counting the votes. The ceremonies, though sometimes a 
little varied, are essentially the same. 

9. When Mr. Van Buren was inaugurated, he entered the 
Senate chamber at half-past eleven. A Marshal and Com- 
mittee of Arrangement attended him. On his right, you 
might have seen the Vice-President, Richard M. Johnson, 
and the Judges of the Supreme Court. On the left, sat foreign 
ambassadors and their suites, in their splendid costumes. The 
senators sat round. In the rear were ladies dressed in the 
richest style. The members of the house of representatives 
occupied the western gallery. 

10. Precisely at 12, Mr. Van Buren rose. This action 
was followed by all others. A procession was formed, which 
proceeded to the eastern portico of the magnificent capitol. 
An immense multitude had assembled to witness the scene. 
The President elect took his station elevated above the rest, 
and now delivered his imiugural speech — in which he stated 
the principles by which he should administer the govern- 
ment. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 167 

11. At length he concluded — when Chief Justice Taney 
rose, and, advancing towards him, administered to him the 
following oath — " I do solemnly swear, that I will faithfully 
execute the office of President of the United States, and will, 
to the best of my ability, forever protect, and defend, the 
Constitution of the United States." 

12. At this moment, the thunder of cannon burst upon 
the gathered thousands, indicating that the transaction was 
passed, and that the nation had now a new President. 

13. There are times when great and grand displays are 
proper. Such a time, doubtless, is when a President of the 
United States is introduced into office. But, my little readers 
should remember, that while it is right to honour men, and 
to accept from them those honours, which may belong to us, 
by virtue of our office, or station in society, we should never 
fail to pay due honour to God. 

14. I will only add, that this is a most happy and favoured 
country. What forbids the little boy, who reads these pages, 
however obscure and humble he may now be, from becoming 
the President of the United States ? And the little girl — she 
may become a President's lady ! 

Think of these things, my young friends, and so form 
your character, and shape your course, that you may one 
day step into the Presidential chair — or take a President's 



168 child's history 

arm to lean upon through life. All I ask is, that if you at- 
tain to such honour, you will remember the " Child's History 
of the United States," which made such a suggestion for 
your benefit, while you were little boys and girls. 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 



169 




Battle of Tippecanoe. 

LESSON XXVI. 

WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON, ? ppp,«,T.FTvrT<5 
JOHN TYLER, ^PRESIDENTS. 

1. Gen. Wiluam Henry Harrison entered 
upon his Presidential career on the 4th of March, 
1841. 

2. The ceremony of his inauguration was, as 
usual, grand and imposing. 



170 

3. By his friends, the hope was cherished, that 
he would prove a blessing to his country. He 
was elected by a large majority. He was known 
to be a long-tried and faithful patriot. He began 
his government with bright and animating pros- 
pects. He had the respect of opposers, and the 
love and admiration of friends. 

4. But the country was destined, by the will 
of God, to a sudden and unexpected disappoint- 
ment. On the 4th day of April — just one month 
from the day of his inauguration — this venerable 
man expired, at Washington. He was sick but 
a few days. It was a surprising event to the 
people of the United States, and the first time a 
President had died while in office. 

v; 6. According to the constitution, John Tyler, 
then Vice-President, became President. He soon 
repaired to Washington, and announced his in- 
tention to carry out the views and principles of 
the lamented Harrison. But he disappointed the 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 171 

people. His administration proved very unpo- 
pular. 

6. The most important measures, during his 
presidency, were, 1. The settlement of the North- 
Eastern boundary of the United States — and, 2. 
An important treaty v^ith China. The first was 
effected by Daniel Webster ; and the second by 
Caleb Cushing. 

7. Mr. Tyler strongly desired to be President 
a second term — but, finding few supporters, he 
withdrew his name. Only two candidates for the 
office were now before the people — Henry Clay 
of Kentucky, and James K. Polk of Tennessee. 

8. On counting the votes, the latter was found 
to have a majority ; and on the 4th of March, 
1845, he became President of the United States. 

QUESTIONS. 

1. When did General Harrison enter upon his Presidential career? 

2. What is said of the ceremony of his inauguration ? 

3- What hope did his friends cherish ? What is said of the majority 
which elected nim ? What of him as a patriot ? How did he begin his 
government ? How did opposers regard hira ? How did friends ? 



172 child's history 

4. But to what was the country destined ? When did he die ? How 
long after his inauguration ? What is said of this event ? 

5. Who now became President ? What intention did he announce? 
Did he fulfil it ? What is said of his administration ? 

6. What two were the most important measures of his administration ? 
Who effected the first ? Who the second ? 

7. What did Mr. Tyler wish, in respect to the Presidency ? Why did 
he withdraw his name ? What two candidates remained ? 

8. Who was elected President ? When did he enter upon the office ? 



STORY. 

1. My story, in this place, very properly relates to the 
brave, patriotic and lamented Harrison. 

2. He was a native of Virginia, where he was born ia 
1773. At the age of 19, General Washington appointed him 
an Ensign. It belonged to him to carry the flag of his coun- 
try — " a banner never tarnished by any act of his long and 
useful life." 

3. He held various important offices, at different periods — 
in all which he gained honour and reputation. For some 
time, he was Governor of Indiana, during which he had to 
fight several battles with the Indians. One in particular has 
become quite celebrated — the battle of Tippecanoe. The 
Indians were more numerous than the Americans. They 
were led on by that brave and noted Indian warrior, Tecum- 
seh. It was a desperate battle. It lasted several hours. The 



f 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 173 

Indians were defeated, and the people of the far west, from 
that time, enjoyed more peace and safety. 

4. Harrison was a general in the war of 1812. In this 
war, he did his country eminent service. It is said that " he 
never lost a battle." 

5. He was not only a brave, but a very humane man. It 
is told of him that he once saved the life of a negro, who was 
condemned to be shot. It was thus : 

6. Just before the battle of Tippecanoe, a negro was ar- 
rested, lurking near his marquee. He was a deserter, and 
had been hired by the Indians to assassinate Harrison. But 
he was seized and confined, till after the battle, when he was 
tried by a court-martial, by v/hich he was sentenced to die 
in one hour. 

7. General Harrison approved the sentence — but he could 
not bear the thought of his being put to death. They had no 
irons, in which to confine him — but they secured him after 
the Indian fashion. A log was partly split, and the negro's 
feet put into it, which held him fast. His arms were tied to 
stakes. Here then he lay on his back, near to the marquee 
of Harrison. It rained, and the large drops fell upon the 
poor fellow's face. Every time he saw Harrison, he would 
look at him most imploringly. The heart of the General was 
touched. 



174 child's history 

8. By the rules of war, being a deserter, and having at- 
tempted the life of his commander, he deserved to die. But 
Harrison determined to make the attempt to save him. So 
he assembled all the officers, and asked them to pardon him. 
For a time the officers resisted. They thought it would work 
mischief. 

9. But, at length. Colonel Snelling seconded the wishes 
of Harrison. "Brave comrades," said he, " let us save him. 
The wretch deserves to die ; but as our commander, whose 
life he attempted, wishes it, let us also forgive him." The 
advice prevailed, and the wicked negro was spared — I hope 
he repented — but whether he did or not, it was most humane, 
on the part of General Harrison, to interpose to save him. 

10. Many stories might be related of General Harrison's 
kindness and liberality. The old soldier always found a 
welcome to his log cabin, and to his table. The latch of his 
door was neve?' drawn in — entrance was alike easy to the 
rich and the poor. He was a noble man — a patriot — and, 
what is more, a Christian. 

11. As a Christian, too, he died. He had many reasons 
for wishing to live. Honour and usefulness were before him. 
But when God called, he yielded to the summons, and 
ascended, we hope, to a better world, and brighter honours. 

12. It is pleasant to dwell upon the character of such a 



OF THE UNITED STATES. 175 

man. It commends itself to our love and admiration. It is 
worthy of imitation. Go, then, little readers, and build for 
yourselves a reputation, like that of this great and good man. 
And then you will be honoured, while you live — and lament- 
ed, when you die. 



THE END. 



